From first bottles to self-feeding: a practical guide for every stage.
Whether breastfeeding, formula-feeding, or combo-feeding, you’ll need bottles, a bottle brush, and burp cloths. If nursing, consider a good nursing pillow and breast pads.
Start with simple purées and soft foods. You’ll need a high chair (or clip-on seat), silicone bibs, small spoons, and suction bowls. Keep it simple — baby doesn’t need a five-course meal.
As baby develops pincer grasp, introduce finger foods and open cups. Look for divided plates, sippy cups, and easy-grip utensils designed for little hands.
Transition to regular utensils, straw cups, and mess-reducing tools like suction plates. Toddlers want to do it themselves — set them up for success with the right gear.
Most pediatricians recommend around 6 months, when baby can sit up and shows interest in food. Always consult your pediatrician.
Iron-fortified cereal, puréed fruits and vegetables are common first foods. There’s no single best option — focus on variety and texture progression.