Feeding Baby

From LoveToKnow Baby

When you first see your newborn in the hospital, or you first bring your baby home, you'll want to learn all about feeding baby. In fact, for the first few weeks of your baby's life, a good portion of each day will be dedicated to feeding him. Of course, as he grows and develops, these feeding sessions will spread out somewhat, and his food options will begin to change greatly.

Breast or Formula

Whether breastfeeding or formula feeding baby is a very personal choice. It can also be a controversial one. The proponents of both methods give valid arguments for their choices. Pediatricians are now recommending that mothers breastfeed if at all possible, and they suggest trying to breastfeed for one year.

If breastfeeding is not possible for you, or you simply don't choose to do so, don't beat yourself up about it. Today's formulas are fortified with all of the essential nutrients your little one needs to grow up strong and healthy. You can also bond with your baby while giving her a bottle. The important thing to remember is that whatever method you choose, you are spending time taking care of and loving your baby, and that is what she needs most of all.

Feeding Baby Solid Foods

You won't need to begin introducing your child to solid foods until he is between four and six months. You will need to look for signs of readiness, such as his interest in your food, his ability to sit up with a little support, and his ability to push food towards the back of his mouth with his tongue. Don't rush him.

Once you do begin feeding baby solid foods, you will still need to give him breast milk or formula. This will still be his main dietary source of nutrition. You should also introduce one food at a time, waiting several days before trying a new food to check for food allergies.

Choking Hazards

Once your little one is eating solids, you will need to avoid giving her certain foods until she is older. Foods that need to be avoided include grapes, nuts, popcorn, hotdogs, peanut butter, and hard candy.

Self-feeding

Once your child understands the concept of eating, you can begin encouraging him to feed himself. Don't be surprised if more of it ends up on him or the floor than actually in his tummy! This just goes with the territory. He may be fascinated with the feel and texture of the foods you place in front of him. Let him examine his food, as this is how he is learning about an important part of his world. Be sure you give him bite size pieces of food that can be chewed easily, however.

Bottle or Cup

When should you take away your baby's bottle? Many pediatricians encourage parents to wean their babies off of the bottle by the time they are one year old. You can introduce your baby to the cup once he is able to sit up and grasp objects fairly easily. There are many cups available, and you may have to try several different styles before finding one that your child is comfortable using. If you do continue to use a bottle, don't put your child to bed with it, and don't let him suck on it all day long. This can cause tooth decay.

Pleasant Mealtimes

Finally, you can help your baby develop good eating habits by introducing her to a variety of fruits, vegetables, and meats. You will want to limit her sweet intake, but you can give her ice cream and yogurt as a special treat. If she doesn't like a particular food, though, don't scold her or try to force her to eat it. Simply put it away, and give her something else just as nutritious. With your encouragement, your little one will develop healthy eating habits in no time!