According to Feeding Littles, you can begin with an open-mouth cup when your baby starts solids—the trick is to make sure your infant can swallow a small amount of water from the cup, regardless of whether they can hold it on their own. From there, move on to a cup with a straw. But how? In a TikTok, Cassidy Anderson, a mom of two, speech and language pathologist, and feeding therapist, shared her top tips for teaching just that.

@cassidyandkids

Replying to @Taylor Harding these are my favorite tried a true tips to get baby drinking from a straw cup! #strawcups #babybottles #babycups #toddlercups #wholemilktransition #weaningtips #breastfeedingtips #babytips #newparents #firsttimemom

♬ original sound – Cassidy Anderson & kids

Remember not to stress about how much water they’re drinking. Your baby gets all their hydration from breast milk and formula until age one, and we don’t want them guzzling too much or it takes up room in their tummy that’s better used for actual food. The goal is simply to get them used to water. So grab a straw cup, sit down with your babe, and try Anderson’s tips below. They’ll be sipping away in no time!

Related: 6 Common Mistakes Parents Make When Starting Solids

1. Make sure the straw isn’t too long.

A baby is a teething machine and they use their mouths to learn about the world around them. If the straw is too long, they’re more likely to chew on it instead of actually drinking. “I see a lot of the time that the straw is sticking out from the top too much. You can bring the straw down or cut it,” says Anderson.

2. Give your baby a flavorful incentive.

Putting a dab of yogurt, fruit puree, or even, gasp, ice cream on the top of the straw is a great way to get your baby interested in using a straw cup. “It’s as simple as just putting a bit on. You can model for them and see if they do it themselves,” explains Anderson.

3. Try the pipette method.

For this trick, you’ll need to suction water into the bottom of the straw by putting your finger on the top and then offering the water to your baby like you would feed a baby bird. “This will help them make the correct suction and learn what the straw is for,” says Anderson.

4. Get a soft cup they can squeeze.

In her video, Anderson shares her favorite honey bear straw cup, and while it’s an adorable silicone cup, the real reason she recommends it is because it’s soft, which allows parents to push the liquid up and motivates their baby to suck the water.

Teaching babies new skills takes time and patience, and if your child seems ready to tackle this oral-motor skill development, great! If not, no worries, they’ll get there soon. Every kiddo develops on their own schedule, and that’s perfectly fine. Before you know it, they’ll be a tween begging for a special-edition Stanley tumbler.

But don’t worry, we’re here to help! Pumping can be tricky if you’re new to it, and lots of things can happen, from sore nipples to figuring out how to use the breast pump in the first place. Beyond reading the manual, we’ve gathered a few breast pumping tips and tricks that’ll make the process easier. Trust us, we’ve been there! And as always, make a plan with your healthcare provider and lean on them with any questions or if you feel like something isn’t right.

1. You don’t have to rush to start pumping

When you first have your baby, you probably don’t have to worry about pumping. You’ll need to focus on developing a good latch and a good supply before starting a pumping schedule, though timing can vary if your baby is premature or has special needs. According to The Cleveland Clinic, it generally takes anywhere from four to six weeks before your supply is established and you know your flow patterns.

2. Good hygiene is a must

Scrub up before you hook up to your pump. Good hygiene is as important as ever when you’re handling pump parts! You’ll also want to rinse all the pieces that touch milk after each session, the sooner the better, and sterilize them once a day. In addition to sterilization, these parts can be cleaned in a wash basin in the sink or in the dishwasher.

3. Master the pump settings

Knowing how to use your pump is essential—because who wants to do all that work and not have a solid supply to show for it? As explained in What to Expect, if your pump has two-phase expression technology, you’ll want to start in letdown mode, which mimics your baby’s fast sucking, then switch to a higher setting like expression mode when the milk starts flowing. Another thing to remember is that faster isn’t always better, so adjust the suction level for comfort, not just the highest power. More suction doesn’t equal more milk!

4. Your nipples deserve some TLC

Breastfeeding is great for baby, but not so great for your nipples. You can do a few things to keep pain to a minimum. La Leche League experts recommend making sure your baby’s positioning and latch are correct to avoid unnecessary nipple issues, and making sure your bras aren’t too tight. To heal cracked or achy nipples, rub some breast milk on and air-dry them after each feeding (it’s like magic!), and consider using cooling gel pads or lanolin cream.

If you notice your nipples rubbing and chafing during pumping sessions, you might be using the wrong size flange (the part that looks like a funnel and fits over your breast). According to Medela, it should just fit over your areola but with enough space for the nipple to freely move back and forth in the flange. Blisters or chafing can also be a sign that you’re pumping at too high a setting, so try reducing the suction to ease discomfort.

5. To combine pumped milk… or not to combine

You can combine! But there’s a catch. According to the CDC, you should cool your fresh batch before mixing it with already cooled or frozen milk. And pay attention to the date on your previously stored milk. It can last in the fridge for up to four days before the properties that slow bacteria growth start to decline, and for about six months in the freezer. Breast milk shouldn’t be left on the counter for more than four hours.

6. Multitask like a boss

If you use a hands-free pump or pumping bra, you can use pumping time to catch up on emails, share a recent batch of baby pics, or binge-watch your favorite shows. After all, you’re producing food for your little one, why shouldn’t it come with a little “me time?” Have all your gear on hand before you start—snacks, water, remote, phone, etc. A couch caddy or armrest table is a great way to keep everything within arm’s reach.

7. Cleaning your gear: Sterilizer vs. microwave bags

If you’re torn between investing in a sterilizer or opting for microwave bags, you’re far from the first expecting parent to feel this way. While sterilizers are highly effective and can be used for bottles, tubes, and other parts, they aren’t cheap or convenient for travel or work.

Microwave bags are just as effective as sterilizers, but they can only be used a certain number of times before they aren’t as effective, and you’ll need a separate place to dry everything. So, in a perfect world, you might opt to use both, but if microwave bags make more sense, you’ll be just fine.

8. Pumping bras are a game-changer

The thought of sitting for 20 minutes doing nothing but holding breast pumps can almost make you want to skip pumping altogether. That’s why using a pumping bra is a must. You can snack, scroll your feeds, or even get work done. As a bonus, the bras are designed to fit most standard pumps, so you don’t have to buy any extra equipment other than the bra. (Hot tip: If you don’t feel like dropping cash on a pumping bra, take a sports bra and snip small holes over each nipple. It might not be as elegant, but it’ll do the trick!)

Related: The Breastfeeding Supplies Moms Swear By

9. Timing is everything

Healthline explains that breastfeeding moms “synthesize the hormone prolactin, which stimulates breast milk production,” overnight, so your best bet for pumping the most milk is right after your baby’s morning feed. Give it a go for 10-15 minutes and start your day. Leave it at that or keep pumping according to your routine and needs.

10. Power pump to boost supply

Breast milk responds to the rule of supply and demand, so the more you pump the more milk your body thinks you need. If you feel like your supply needs a boost, bring it up with a kind of pumping interval training to stimulate prolactin, the milk-making hormone. Pump for 20 minutes, then take 10 minutes off. Then pump for 10 minutes, and take another 10 minutes off. Do this for a few days and you’ll see an increase in your supply, says Happiest Baby. Just be sure not to skip any of your regularly scheduled feeds.

11. Keep a spare kit

This is a simple breast pumping tip, but it’s an important one—especially for working moms. If you’re on the go, keep a backup set of parts in your bag. There’s nothing worse than realizing you left a valve at home when your boobs are on the brink.

12. Use pumping time to bond with your baby

Yup, the simplest way to help boost your milk supply, according to What to Expect, is connecting with your baby. It can be anything from smelling their favorite blanket or looking at pictures of them to indulging in skin-on-skin time, or, if you’re up for it, nursing on one side and pumping on the other.

Our instinct is to say “No! Stop throwing your food” or “Don’t throw your plate.” But it’s very hard for babies and even toddlers to understand what ‘stop,’ ‘no,’ and ‘don’t’ mean, explains pediatric speech pathologist and mom of two Cassidy Anderson. That’s especially the case when those words land in the middle of a sentence, she says. Cassidy offers several alternatives when you are trying to curb this bad behavior. “What we want to do instead is to tell baby where we want the food, what the food is for, and leave that last [in the direction].”

@cassidyandkids

Lets stop that food throwing & get your baby/toddler actually eating #momtok #parentsoftiktok #startingsolids #toddlersoftiktok #toddlerbehavior #foodthrowing #babyledweaning #toddlermeals #babymeals #babyfood #pickyeater #pickytoddler #blwideas #babythrowingfood #slpsoftiktok #slpmom #newparents #parentingtips #firsttimemom

♬ original sound – Cassidy Anderson & kids

Some example phrases Cassidy suggests using instead of “We don’t throw food” are:

• “Food is for eating.”
• “We want it on.” (pointing to the tray)
• “Uh-oh. That food is all done.”
• “Throwing shows me all done.”
• “Keep the food on.” (pointing to the plate)

Once you’ve said this, and they throw again (like you know they will), you take the plate away from them and say, “Throwing shows me all done. I’m going to take this for now, and if you’re still hungry, you can try again.” Cassidy goes on to explain that if they reach out or say they are still hungry, then you give them the food again and say, “Food is for eating. Throwing shows me all done. Keep the food on.” If the child throws a third time, then they’re really all done, they get taken down from the high chair, and the food goes away.

Cassidy suggests handling it this way because we don’t “ever want food to feel like a reward or discipline. We want to try and stay as neutral as possible with our emotions. When you give a lot of attention to throwing and have big reactions when your baby or toddler throws, we know in child development that they are just probably going to do that more,” she explains. “We’re going to try and keep it cool and keep our language the same throughout.”

In a follow-up video, Cassidy provides a few other ways to curb the food-throwing habit:

• Take the tray off the high chair and move the child up to the table. This makes them feel like they are more a part of mealtime, and they’ll be less inclined to throw food off the sides.
• Offer an “all done bowl” where the child can discard things they don’t want to eat. This teaches that it is okay to not want to eat something, but it’s not okay to throw it on the floor.
• Change up their dinnerware. By introducing a new plate, cup, or piece of silverware, you are mixing things up, and the novelty makes them more interested.
• Sit at the table with your child for family mealtime (when possible). By modeling eating without the distractions of phones or TV, you are encouraging good eating habits for your kids.

These strategies aren’t going to work all the time, but maybe making a few of them part of your everyday routine will lead to less stressful mealtimes and less food wasted.

Related: Mistakes Parents Make When Starting Solids

Miss Michael is all business as she starts her video: “These are the top eight choking hazards for children under 4. Let’s go.”

@_missmichael

I know you love sharing popcorn with your kids, but is it worth the risk? Can your shared enjoyment wait? #chokinghazard #toddlersafety #babyledweaning #feedingtherapy #speechtherapy #popcorn #hotdogs #halloween #preschool

♬ Donki, fun loop music playing in the supermarket(844392) – スキャット後藤

Hot dogs: The first one, she notes, shouldn’t surprise parents. “Your throat is a circle,” she says. “When you cut hot dogs into rounds, they can get stuck. At the very least, cut them lengthwise. Even better? Cut them into quarters.”

Whole grapes: The second choking risk for toddlers is grapes, for the same reason: They’re also circular. They should also be cut into quarters.

Hard candies: Number three is candies like M&Ms and Skittles. Again, they’re circular—there’s a theme here.

Popcorn: Number four? Popcorn. “Every piece of the popcorn,” Miss Michael says. “It is easily inhaled. Don’t even try it if your kid is congested.” Rice cakes or puffed corn cakes are a much better option for the toddler set.

Chips: Chips are just too sharp for little mouths to handle, and if a shard gets caught in their throats they can choke. They’re better off snacking on puffs, cheddar crackers, or animal crackers.

Related: The Best First Foods for Baby (And Ones to Avoid)

Nuts: Hard nuts should be avoided entirely since they’re difficult for toddlers to chew and can become sharp in their mouths. But this doesn’t mean they have to miss out on the tasty flavor of nuts (especially given how important it is to expose young kids to allergens). Blend nut butter into smoothies, stir into yogurt, or spread some on toast soldiers.

Marshmallows: Number seven is marshmallows, because “if they get lodged, they are going to expand,” she says. “Not good.”

Cheese cubes: Finally, the last choking risk she warns about is cubed cheese. “Grate it or thinly slice it instead,” she suggests.

So parents, there you have it. Pretty much any round food? A no-go for toddlers. And as many experts have pointed out, when they’re young and still learning how to chew and swallow, sticking to softer foods and smaller pieces is generally the safer choice.

Miss Michael ends her video with some sage advice: “Happy snacking. Don’t die.”

The pincer grasp is an important skill for eating, but also as they grow—for picking up toys, turning the pages of a book, zipping up sweaters, and using scissors, just to name a few. Like any new skill, it takes time to get it right and practice makes perfect. When they start showing signs that they’re trying to pick up little things, start cutting their food into small, bite-sized pieces. Give them plenty of opportunities to work on it throughout the day—whether you’re prepping dinner, making your second (or third!) cup of coffee, taking a snack break at the park, or during mealtime. There are plenty of foods to try, from fresh fruits and veggies to packaged options (beyond the very obvious Cheerios). 

As a dietitian and mom of three, I know how overwhelming it can be to introduce your baby to food. To make things easier, I’ve rounded up my favorite finger foods that help your baby strengthen their pincer grasp:

1. Peas 

Peas are a delicious and budget-friendly way to help your baby practice their pincer grasp. Toss a couple of bags of frozen peas into your shopping cart (usually less than $1 each), and you’ll have enough pincer grasping practice for dozens of meals. Just remember that small, round foods can pose a choking risk since they can get lodged in the esophagus. To reduce this risk, lightly mash the peas so that they lose their circular shape.

2. Yogurt Melts

Yogurt melts are always a fan-favorite because they’re sweet, melt in the mouth, and are fun to eat. Try to look for options that are made from real food ingredients and don’t have any added sugar. We love Amara Smoothie Melts because they fit the bill, with ingredients lists that include fruits, veggies, and coconut milk. Plus, the reusable bags are super convenient for traveling—just seal them up, pop them in the diaper bag, and you’re ready to practice the pincer grasp on the go. 

3. Beans 

You’ve got a ton of beans to choose from—chickpeas, black beans, kidney beans, cannellini beans, pinto beans, and more! We love beans because they’re perfect for practicing the pincer grasp and give your baby a boost of iron, a nutrient they need more of at this age. Just like peas, beans can pose a choking risk since they’re small and round, so make sure to flatten them into a disc shape or lightly mash them to keep mealtime safe.

4. Berries

Berries are another fantastic food to help your baby refine their pincer grasp, and they’re packed with fiber and antioxidants to boot. Whether you choose blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries, it’s important to modify them for safety. Cut blueberries in half or flatten them into a disc shape, quarter blackberries lengthwise, and lightly mash or flatten raspberries before serving.

5. Puffs

Puffs are a beloved snack for eager little fingers, with good reason. They’re also great for involving your baby in family snack moments. For example, when older siblings are munching on crunchy, puffy snacks like chips or cheese curls, offering age-appropriate puffs ensures that baby feels like part of the snacking crew. When you’re perusing the snack aisle, opt for baby puffs without added sugar and salt, like Little Bellies Softcorn, which is made from solid ingredients like corn meal and real fruit powders.* 

Related: 6 Common Mistakes Parents Make When Starting Solids

We also love these star-shaped Once Upon a Farm puffs because they’re fun to eat and easy for tots to pick up. Plus, they keep your baby happily occupied while you take a quick five or whip up a speedy dinner before carpool. They’re unsweetened, salt-free, and made with nutritious ingredients like sorghum flour, avocado oil, fruit and vegetable powders, and coconut milk powder. 

6. Shredded cheese

Shredded cheese can be a bit trickier to pick up, depending on how finely it’s shredded. Challenging your baby with different textures can help strengthen their skills. Try offering freshly shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese. Remember, cheeses tend to be higher in sodium, so it’s a good idea to moderate how often you give them to your baby.

7. Homemade pancakes 

Homemade pancakes are a family favorite because they’re nutritious and always a crowd-pleaser. Instead of serving them whole or in strips, cut them into bite-sized squares to give your baby’s pincer grasp a workout. Here’s a mom hack: we love this three-ingredient pancake recipe using banana, flour, and eggs—it’s easy to prepare and there’s less cleanup, too. 

*The author has a working relationship with this brand.

While most foods are fair game, some are better than others, and a few should be avoided entirely for your baby’s safety. As a dietitian and mom of three, these are what I consider to be the best and worst foods for starting solids with your baby. Let’s dive into the details so you can confidently feed your infant and enjoy the wild (and messy!) journey ahead. 

The best foods for starting solids 

Babies can try most things as long as they are modified for texture, shape, and size to avoid any potential choking hazards. But for optimal nutrition, there are specific foods that are especially important for healthy growth and development. Keep in mind that at this stage, babies are still getting the majority of their nutrition from breast milk and/or formula, but they still need food for additional nutrients and skill development, like learning how to self-feed. The idea that “food before one is just for fun” is a misconception because solid food does start to matter at this age. The goal is for babies to eat 3 solid meals per day by age one, and achieving this requires gradually building up their skills and exposure to these foods. 

Bright, colorful produce

Fruits and vegetables are some of the best first foods since they offer a wide range of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. The produce aisle offers so many different colors and textures that can make mealtime exciting and capture a baby’s attention. Plus, the variety of flavors – from sweet and tart to earthy and bitter–can expose infants to lots of different tastes. Just be sure you’re preparing them in an age-appropriate way. Here are some examples:

• Strawberries 
• Butternut squash
• Banana
• Broccoli 
• Blueberries 
• Blackberries 
• Dragon Fruit
• Cauliflower 

Iron-rich foods

When babies reach 6 months, their iron needs jump to 11 mg per day. Iron supports healthy neurological development and helps red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. 11 mg is a large number, and can seem impossible to meet, especially since babies eat small amounts of food. Instead of stressing about numbers (no need to carry around a food diary!), focus on serving iron-rich foods 1 to 2 times per day. Some examples include:

• Beef
• Chicken
• Fish
• Eggs
• Beans
• Lentils 
• Tofu
• Peas
• Iron-fortified cereals

Nutrient-dense foods

Since infants eat very small amounts of food, especially when they first start solids, you’re going to want to make every bite count. Your best bet is to serve nutrient-dense foods that pack loads of vitamins and minerals, even in small servings. Below are some baby-friendly nutrient-packed foods:

• Avocado
• Salmon
• Eggs
• Nut butter (thinned with water, breastmilk, or prepared infant formula)
• Greek whole milk yogurt (plain, unsweetened) 

Allergens

Research has shown that introducing allergenic foods early and regularly can significantly reduce the risk of your kiddo developing food allergies, so parents have the green light to start offering them at around 6 months when their kids start solids. You can chat with your pediatrician first about how best to introduce each allergen, especially if your family has a history of allergies. Here are the 9 most common allergens:

• Cow’s milk 
• Wheat 
• Eggs
• Soy 
• Sesame 
• Tree nuts
• Peanuts
• Fish
• Shellfish

Foods to avoid

While it’s great to introduce babies to a variety of foods, textures, flavors, and colors, there are certain foods to avoid for their health and safety.

Choking hazards

We all know how important it is to avoid foods that present a choking risk, but some of the items on the list might come as a surprise so we’re laying them all out. There are a few different types of choking hazards to look out for: small, round foods like whole blueberries or chickpeas, hard or sharp foods like raw carrots or chips, and anything sticky, gummy, rubbery, or super slippery. Here are some foods that are big no-nos for children under age 4:

• Hot dogs and sausages 
• Whole blueberries
• Whole beans
• Whole or large pieces of nuts
• Whole cherry tomatoes
• Whole grapes
• Marshmallows
• Hard or gummy candies
• Gummy vitamins 
• Crackers with sharp edges 
• Chips
• Popcorn
• Loose corn kernels
• Hard, raw fruit like apples and pears 
• Hard, raw vegetables like carrots and celery
• Pomegranate arils 
• Nut butters that are not thinned 
• Plain bread (when mixed with saliva it can get gummy form into a ball in the mouth)
• Cheese sticks
• Chewing gum
• Dried fruit
• Poultry or fish with bones
• Cubes or chunks of meat or chicken
• Whole olives
• Citrus without membranes removed 
• Shellfish
• Shrimp 

While these foods can present a choking risk, it doesn’t mean they all have to. For example, shrimp and lobster can be offered if they’re properly modified (cut into small pieces and mixed with a condiment or mashed avocado). The Solid Starts First Food Database is a free resource that guides parents on how to safely prepare and cut foods based on their baby’s age. 

Honey

Babies under 12 months should not eat cooked or raw honey because it can be contaminated with harmful bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. This can lead to infant botulism, a serious and potentially life-threatening disease that can damage the nervous system and lead to death.

Added sugar

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises against serving foods with added sugar to babies and children under age 2. Added sugar is more than just white or brown sugar – it also includes honey, maple syrup, agave, molasses, and other forms found in packaged goods like brown rice syrup or high fructose corn syrup. Common foods with added sugars include:

• Ice cream
• Packaged baked goods
• Candy
• Fruit drinks
• Breakfast cereals 
• Flavored yogurts 
• Sauces and condiments 
• Flavored milks

Salt 

With their kidneys still developing, it’s harder for babies to filter out excess sodium. That’s why it’s best to avoid adding salt to their food or giving them packaged foods high in sodium. When flavoring your baby’s meals, skip sauces or spices with sodium, and instead, offer sodium-free options like dried or fresh herbs, garlic powder, cinnamon, or turmeric.

It’s also important to steer clear of packaged foods with high sodium levels, including: 

• Deli meats 
• Cured meats
• Olives and pickles
• Bread (look for sodium-free breads instead, like this one)
• Salty cheeses
• Pizza
• Chicken nuggets
• Frozen, prepared foods
• Store-bought prepared foods 
• Restaurant fare 
• Puffs and crackers

You’re going to love this fun new phase with your baby, from the squished-up little faces they make when they try a new flavor to the satisfaction you get seeing them gobble up something you love. If you’re ever unsure of anything when it comes to starting solids, check in with your pediatrician.

Tip #1: Educate yourself 

Equipping yourself with information is the first step. Nowadays, the baby food game has changed, and we know so much more than we used to. There are a few different ways to begin solids: purees, baby-led weaning, or a mix of both. Once you decide which route to take, consider taking a course that covers all the basics, including how to know when your baby is ready, what to put on the menu, the 411 on food allergies, choking hazards, and feeding schedules.

Some of our favorite starting solids courses:

• Feeding Littles Infant Course: Online course run by a pediatric dietitian and feeding therapist, with evidence-based advice for starting solids. 
• Solid Starts Food Database: Free food database that offers information on how to prepare different items based on your child’s age. 
• Plant-Based Juniors First Bites: Online courses focused on starting solids for plant-based families.

Tip #2: Invest in a good highchair

The most important feeding product is a good, sturdy highchair that will safely support your baby while they’re eating. There are tons of options out there, but the best ones will have most if not all of these features:

• Easy to clean 
• Adjustable footrest 
• Removable tray 
• Slim build
• Grows with your child 

These features matter because you’ll want a functional highchair that looks good and is comfortable for your baby. Here are some of my favorites that check all the boxes:

• The Mockingbird highchair ($225) has a compact, minimalist design without nooks and crannies for food to hide. The removable tray and silicone straps are dishwasher safe, it has an adjustable footrest and tray, and converts into a toddler chair.
• The Stokke Tripp Trapp ($399) highchair is made from solid wood and features an adjustable footrest and a dishwasher-safe tray for easy cleaning. It’s super stylish and grows with your kiddo.
• The Keekaroo Height Right Highchair ($189.95) has an adjustable footrest, secure seating, a three-point safety belt, and a seat cushion for comfort. It eventually converts into a chair that can handle adults.

Tip #3: Taste the rainbow 

Eating should be fun, so allow your baby to enjoy the different colors, textures, and flavors of food! Introduce them to a variety of food groups, which will give them a dose of various vitamins and minerals right from the start. Unless it’s a major allergen, feel free to offer up multiple foods at each meal. Here’s an idea of what a week might look like when you try introducing a new food each day, mixing up textures, flavors, and food groups:

Week 1:

• Broccoli 
• Raspberry
• Black beans
• Avocado
• Banana
• Chicken
• Iron-fortified oat cereal 

Week 2: 

• Peas 
• Yams
• Pear
• Lentils
• Strawberries 
• Beef
• Kale 

Week 3:

• Cauliflower
• Zucchini
• Sweet potato
• Apple
• Peach 
• Turkey
• Quinoa 
• Chia seeds 

If this feels like too much to handle, try breaking it down into simpler steps. Make a list of the different food groups and categorize them. Aim to introduce 2 to 3 new foods each week, rotating them out weekly. This way, your baby gets a taste of the rainbow while you nurture a future foodie! 

Tip #4: Embrace the mess—and streamline the cleanup

Starting solids is messy, and that’s how it should be. Babies use all their senses—sight, touch, and smell, not just taste—to experience food. So, even though it might not be what you want to hear, let your baby make a mess! Let them smear food all over their tray and finger paint with it. And instead of wiping their face between bites (would you want your face wiped every time you took a bite?), let them sit in the mess and really connect with their food.

That being said, this doesn’t mean cleanup has to be a hassle. Here are some tips to make it easier. First, feed your baby in a diaper only, especially in the summer, which cuts down on laundry. Second, place a splat mat or disposable tablecloth under the highchair, so you can just scoop up the mess and toss it in the trash (instead of getting on your hands and knees to scrub the floor!) Third, enlist the help of your furry friend—pets can be great at cleaning up those crumbs and spills!

Tip #5: Give yourself a break 

Although we all love a good homemade applesauce or avocado puree, sometimes we’re just too busy or exhausted to make fresh baby food, and that’s perfectly okay. Cut yourself some slack and buy yourself some good-for-you premade options for those days when you just can’t even. But keep in mind that not all baby food is created equal and some are definitely better than others. Here are some of our favorites, with simple, whole foods ingredients and no added sugar or salt:

• Little Spoon delivers freshly made baby food right to your door (talk about hassle-free!). 
• Little Bellies frozen fruit and veggie puree cubes are perfectly portioned for a quick and easy thaw or defrost.
• Once Upon A Farm pouches are super convenient for tossing in your diaper bag or when you’re on the go.
• Amara baby food powder is a lifesaver when you’re in a hurry or traveling; just mix it with water, breastmilk, or formula!
• Beech-Nut jarred purees are widely available in multiple retailers. 

Hopefully, these tips will make you feel like a pro when feeding your baby. Starting solids should be fun, so don’t sweat it and enjoy the adventure!

Most of us would agree that the best options have a few key features. We’re looking for suction-bottom plates and bowls (babies are mighty flingy as far as bowls and plates go), high-quality baby-safe materials, soft-on-the-gums utensils, and weighted sippy cups (because of that flingy thing again). A lot of feeding supplies are created with food-grade silicone, since it’s soft, but we also found stainless steel and bamboo options for those of us looking to skip the plastic. There are even options that also keep your comfort in mind. From bibs to bowls to snack containers, these are some seriously clever products for feeding your little one. Check out our list of the best baby feeding supplies below.

Best Utensils: Baby Spoons & Forks

Avanchy Bamboo Baby Spoons

Shorter handles and wider scoops make these perfect for babies just starting out all the way to the toddler stage. Multiple colors and set options are available, too.

Avanchy Bamboo Baby Spoons ($14.99)—Buy Here!

mushie Flatware Fork and Spoon Set

Made in Denmark, these aesthetic toddler and baby utensils are as pretty as they are functional. They're so simple that they're easy for little ones to hang onto while they learn their way around solid foods. They come in lots of soft colors, too.

mushie Flatware Fork and Spoon Set ($7.99)—Buy Here!

Grabease Baby Utensils

These chunky baby spoons and forks are ideal for little grips. The shape helps them hang onto their utensils and the kiddo-friendly colors (there are lots of them!) help to keep them engaged. 

Grabease Baby Utensils ($11.99)—Buy Here!

Munchkin Soft Tip Baby Spoons 12ct

Munchkin baby spoons are a parent favorite: gentle on baby's gums, ergonomically shaped, and long enough to reach the bottom of those food jars. What's not to love?

Munchkin Soft Tip Baby Spoons 12ct ($8.66)—Buy Here!

Kizingo Curved Spoons Set of 2

Created by moms who just get it, these curved spoons are great for littles learning to feed themselves. They help develop motor skills without exhausting their wrist, shoulders, or elbows with overly complicated movements. Available in 2 sets of different colors.

Kizingo Curved Spoons Set of 2 ($14.99)—Buy Here!

Best Baby Plates & Bowls

Munchkin Stay Put Suction Bowls Set of 3

The best baby feeding supplies let you say goodbye to flying baby bowls. The suction cup bottom keeps these securely in place, while the quick-release tab makes it easy for you to clean up when mealtime is over. 

Munchkin Stay Put Suction Bowls Set of 3 ($8.82)—Buy Here!

WeeSprout Suction Plates with Lids

Suction bottoms are a theme here, of course, but the WeeSprout plates offer a divided design and matching lids for on-the-go carrying, leftovers, and meal prep. Lots of color combos are available, too.

WeeSprout Suction Plates with Lids ($18.98)—Buy Here!

Avanchy Bamboo & Stainless Steel Baby Bowls

Trying to avoid plastic? This bamboo and stainless steel bowl set from Avanchy is a great way to go. The bundle includes both bowls and a lid for easy transport or leftovers. Several colors are available, too.

Avanchy Bamboo & Stainless Steel Baby Bowls ($42.98)—Buy Here!

ezpz Tiny Bowl

You probably already know ezpz, and this beauty doesn't just include a suction bottom, but it also has a built-in placemat to majorly mitigate spills. Available in 4 colors.

ezpz Tiny Bowl ($16.99)—Buy Here!

Skip Hop Grab Bowls Set of 2

Finally, bowls that keep your comfort in mind, too. The ergonomic handles make feeding much easier to hang on to and we're always big fans of lids.

Skip Hop Grab Bowls Set of 2 ($12.00)—Buy Here!

Olababy Silicone Steam Bowl

Warm up baby food by steaming over a saucepan or steamer with this bowl. And don't worry—the bowl itself doesn't get hot as it steams, either, so it won't get overheated.

Olababy Silicone Steam Bowl ($11.95)—Buy Here!

Best Snack Containers

The Baby's Brew 2-in-1 Snack Cup

These snack cups are soft and collapsible, with an interchangeable snack cup or straw sip lid. Plus the secure snack lid keeps goodies contained and is perfect for little hands.

The Baby's Brew 2-in-1 Snack Cup ($21)—Buy Here!

b.box 3-in-1 Snack Bowl

As far as baby snack containers go, this isn't just one that keeps the Cheerios from flying out. With a straw, storage lid, and snack dispenser lid, you can use it for everything from Goldfish to soup to smoothies and beyond. Lots of cute color combinations are available, too.

b.box 3-in-1 Snack Bowl ($15.99)—Buy Here!

mushie Snack Cup

Oh, mushie and their soft colors that we just can't get enough of. The double handles are super helpful for little ones, too. Tons of color options with this one.

mushie Snack Cup ($13.99)—Buy Here!

Best Baby Feeding Sets

Baby Björn Baby Feeding Set

The rounded sides of the plate make it easy for scooping and containing food, and this set also includes a stable cup for learning to drink, and easy-to-hold utensils. It comes in 4 colors.

Baby Björn Baby Feeding Set ($34.99)—Buy Here!

Busy Baby ULTIMATE Busy Baby Bundle

The best baby feeding supplies are multi-functional, and Busy Baby agrees. This bundle includes Busy Baby's best sellers: Mat (original size) with 4 Tethers, Mini Mat, Teether & Training Spoon, Bungee Bib & Utensils, Bottle Bungee, and Toy Bungee. Not only are they excellent feeding tools, but the bungees keep toys, utensils, and more from falling on the floor.

Busy Baby ULTIMATE Busy Baby Bundle ($124.00)—Buy Here!

Lalo First Bites Silicone Baby Feeding Set

The Lalo First Bites set is one of the most popular out there. It includes utensils, bib, 4oz cup, suction plate, and bowl and is available in 5 colors.

Lalo First Bites Silicone Baby Feeding Set ($75.99)—Buy Here!

MICHEF Baby Feeding Set

Designed for babies 4+ months, the MICHEF set comes complete with 2 baby food feeders with 3 different sized replacement silicone sacs, baby spoons, and a bowl with masher.

MICHEF Baby Feeding Set ($29.99)—Buy Here!

VOD VISUAL Owl Baby Feeding Set

Why not add a friendly face to mealtime with this adorable owl set? The dishes even have suction cup bottoms. Available in several colors.

VOD VISUAL Owl Baby Feeding Set ($25.99)—Buy Here!

Best Bibs

Tiny Twinkle Long Sleeve Bibs

Cover them alllllll the way up with these best-selling long-sleeve bibs. There's a good chance they'll still find a way to drip something somewhere, but this set mitigates the possibility. Lots of colors are available.

Tiny Twinkle Long Sleeve Bibs ($25.99)—Buy Here!

Grabease Allover Waterproof Bib

Looking for serious bib coverage? Look no further. This one is designed to cover your babe and their highchair, plus it's machine washable. Multiple color options, too.

Grabease Allover Waterproof Bib ($26.99)—Buy Here!

PandaEar Silicone Bibs Set of 3

Budget-friendly, ultra-functional, and scoring almost 5 stars from over 12,000 Amazon reviewers? This is the set that delivers.

PandaEar Silicone Bibs Set of 3 ($11.65)—Buy Here!

Bumkins Waterproof Fabric Starter Bibs

Fabric bibs are classic for a reason: these waterproof fabric bibs are soft and strong and include a crumb-catcher pocket. Machine wash them over and over. Plus, they come in lots of adorable colors and prints.

Bumkins Waterproof Fabric Starter Bibs ($10.95)—Buy Here!

Tiny Twinkle Apron Bib

We're really into this apron-style bib with little arm holes that are totally tug-proof. The sweet colors and prints are a major selling point here, too.

Tiny Twinkle Apron Bib ($13.99)—Buy Here!

Best Water Cups

Olababy Silicone Training Cup with Straw Lid

Learning is the name of the game when it comes to baby water cups, and this one is designed by pediatric experts. The weighted base prevents tip-overs and your little one can see inside the cup to know what's in it and how much is left (which is a big deal when they're learning to drink for themselves). 5 colors available.

Olababy Silicone Training Cup with Straw Lid ($17.95)—Buy Here!

Evorie Tritan Weighted Straw Sippy Cup

Made of Tritan that's clear as glass yet strong as stainless steel, the Evorie Sippy Cup is an award-winning option with a straw that allows babies to drink from an angle while minimizing extra air that can lead to tummy troubles. Multiple colors and designs are available.

Evorie Tritan Weighted Straw Sippy Cup ($20.99)—Buy Here!

Bunnytoo Baby Sippy Cup with Weighted Straw

The weighted straw idea is brilliant, honestly. It lets your little one drink from any angle or position and keeps spills and leaks to a minimum. There are 7 colors available.

Bunnytoo Baby Sippy Cup with Weighted Straw ($13.34)—Buy Here!

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So what exactly is baby-led weaning?

Typically babies start eating solid foods around 4-6 months by being spoon-fed purees. Slowly, they build up to chunkier foods until they graduate to solids. Babies learn to swallow food first and chew later.

With baby-led weaning, babies start no earlier than six months with soft solid foods cut into finger-length spears. Think watermelon, avocado, bananas, cooked veggies, or stewed meat.

Babies are allowed to experiment—i.e., play—with what they eat. Manipulating food teaches them how to deal with different tastes and textures, and how to bite or mash food into swallowable pieces.

Is BLW healthy?

Yes! The onus is on families eating well-balanced meals and sharing those meals with their children.

There are a few things to keep in mind though:

1. Foods need to be low in salt and sugar, and as with any infant under one, no honey.
2. While it can take babies a while—up to a few weeks—to swallow anything, they receive the nutrients they need via formula or breastmilk.
3. Parents can incorporate a mix of BLW and purees, but we opted to stick to a strict BLW and breastmilk diet.

Is baby-led weaning dangerous?

BLW is a perfectly safe method of getting your child started on solid foods. A 2016 study by the American Academy of Pediatrics determined that BLW babies are at no higher risk of choking than spoon-fed babies. Technically, you can choke at any time in your life while eating just about anything (and there’s a big difference between choking and gagging, which babies do a lot).

My husband and I took an online infant safety class before our daughter’s first meal. But that’s a safe move regardless of how you choose to feed your child.

Now I don’t want to get into the ins and outs of BLW—you can read up on it here— but I want you to know it’s been one of our favorite parenting decisions.

Why was BLW one of our best decisions ever?

It’s made our daughter more independent. From day one BLW babies eat on their own. The method asks that you don’t spoon-feed your child—ever. (Though some people are more strict than others and we’ve had a few occasions where we’ve been more lenient).

BLW babies are expected to be in charge of their food journey. My daughter chooses what she wants to eat and how much of it—within the options that are in front of her. The implications of that set kids up for a life-long positive relationship with food. If she doesn’t want to eat that much one day? Fine. She’ll more than make up for it the next day.

Today, our friends, family, and her daycare teacher repeatedly tell us how good of an eater she is. And it’s true—we’ve avoided a picky eater which we think is due to her being in control of what she eats from the beginning.  My child is happily entertained with whatever you place in front of her. That means veggies, fruit, seafood—you name it.

I think that is because BLW kids are allowed (and encouraged) to experience their food. Because they’re eating on their own, it gives babies a chance to pick up their food, mash it, touch it, look at it, and eventually eat it.

Related: 6 Common Mistakes Parents Make When Starting Solids

What this encourages (aside from making a mess) is for kids to play with different textures, shapes, tastes, and colors.

But it also allows kids to experience food in the same form we eat it as adults. I don’t eat pureed carrots, or meat, or any mixture thereof. But I do eat solid carrots and meats. BLW allows kids to observe, touch, and taste whole foods the way they will encounter them as they get older.

Fussy eaters often complain about the differences in texture or taste. BLW nips that in the bud by having babies encounter those differences from the get-go.

The Result? We Have Stress-Free Meal Times

Because my daughter devours whatever we give her and because we don’t have to spoon-feed her, mealtimes are family time. There’s no need to feed the baby first and then eat once she’s gone to bed. The three of us get to enjoy our meals at the same time. And as babies learn through observation, BLW has helped our daughter be a part of a daily, communal family dinner.

The Unexpected Part? It Saves Time & Money

Here are the oh-so-fantastic list of things that we appreciate now:

• No extra meal prep
• No need to bring food when we eat out
• No need to buy baby food

To a certain extent, it lets us live like we don’t have a baby. We enjoy our meals, we still eat out, and we eat a healthy, grown-up diet.

I Can’t Imagine Doing It Any Other Way

BLW has made my daughter into the little devourer of food that she is. I’m proud to see her happily munching away at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I’m relieved we can take her virtually anywhere and know she’ll be fine. But my favorite part? Sitting down as a family to a very normal, calm meal.

BLW has changed my whole outlook on getting kids started eating. It boosters a love for a healthy, varied diet while getting kids acquainted with food on their own terms.

Yes, it’s a personal decision, but I’m proud to say baby-led weaning has been a winning choice for our family.

Finding boxed and bagged snacks for babies can be a challenge since they can’t eat just anything. As a dietitian mom, I try to be mindful of textures, sugar, and salt content, and it can be a struggle to find options that tick all those boxes. But don’t stress, we’ve done the work for you, so instead of endlessly scrolling the web, you can actually savor a few more sips of your reheated coffee. Here are some of my favorite packaged baby snacks.

Baby snacks for 6-12 months:

Bamba Peanut Butter Puffs

These puffs are the OG for introducing peanuts as a potential allergen to your baby. They’re made with a few simple ingredients and have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that infants adore. Plus, they’re the perfect size for little hands and encourage self-feeding. Though they have a bit of added salt, I stick to a handful for young babies and only really offer them for allergen exposure. 

Little Bellies Organic Pick-Me Sticks

If you’re excited for your baby to feed themselves, you can encourage them with these fantastic puffed corn snacks. Their size and shape are just right for tiny hands, especially for babies still mastering their palmar grasp. The meltable sticks are suitable for ages 7 months and older and are sugar-free, salt-free, and organic. 

Amara Smoothie Melts

These cute meltables are like tiny smoothies that dissolve on your baby’s tongue. They’re perfect for little ones aged 10 months and up who are getting the hang of the pincer grasp, that cool trick of picking up small things between the thumb and index finger. They’re loaded with fruit, veggies, and coconut milk, and are free from added sugar. They’re also packed in resealable bags, making them super convenient to take on the go.

Fage Total 5% Greek Yogurt

If there’s one thing I’d splurge on, it’s these yogurts. My kids can’t get enough of them! Unlike some other plain Greek yogurt varieties that can be a bit tangy, this one is incredibly creamy and smooth, without any tartness.  And the best part? It’s loaded with 14 grams of protein per serving! I serve it on its own, mixed with fruit, or blended into smoothies for that dreamy creamy texture. These single-serving portions are the perfect grab-and-go option for busy days (just remember to toss them into an insulated lunch bag to keep them cool).

Kekoa Foods Pouches

If you’re eager to introduce your baby to a world of flavors, give these Kekoa Foods pouches a try. I love that they offer unique blends like curry vegetable mango, apple and ginger, and mango paprika, perfect for broadening your baby’s palate while you’re out and about. They’re organic, free from added sugar, vegan, gluten-free, and definitely get our seal of approval!

Related: 9 Dietitian-Approved Packaged Costco Snacks for Kids

Baby snacks for 12+ months:

Cerebelly Smart Bars

These nutrient-dense bars are loaded with all the good stuff, minus the added sugar. They’re available in a variety of yummy flavors like carrot-date, strawberry-beet, and apple-kale, and made with ingredients like sunflower seed butter, oats, fruits, and vegetables. Plus, they’re Clean Label certified, organic, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free for extra peace of mind. 

Once Upon A Farm Tractor Wheels

What could be more fun than a soft-baked bar shaped like a tractor wheel? These oat-based snacks are sweetened with fruit and baked with a mix of fruits and veggies. Each ‘wheel’ packs in 3 grams of fiber, which can be especially handy if you have a little one who’s struggling in the bathroom department.

Serenity Kids Grain-Free Puffs

You know those times when you just need to occupy your kid for 20 minutes while you whip up dinner (or finally get to sit down for the first time in hours)? These bite-sized puffs will do just the trick. Kids love their irresistibly cheesy flavor, which makes them even more willing to practice putting their wee fingers into a pincer grasp. These puffs are gluten-free, nut-free, egg-free, and completely free from added sugar. Bonus: They pack 1 gram of protein per serving, giving you some precious hanger-free moments until dinner hits the table.

Once Upon A Farm Organic Dairy-Free Smoothie Pouches

These are the ultimate pouches because they contain a perfect balance of nutrition, packing 3 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber per serving. Made from whole-food ingredients like fruits, veggies, coconut milk, and pumpkin seeds, they’re are organic, free from added sugar, and incredibly convenient to toss into an insulated lunchbox. Yummy for kiddos under 12 months, too!

Happy Wolf Bars

In my home, these bars disappear within minutes. Sweetened with dates and honey, they’re a delightful blend of oats, sunflower seed butter, and pumpkin seed butter. They’re also allergen-free, so my kids can safely take them to school or playdates. And with 3 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber in each bar, they keep my brood happy between meals. Just a heads up: these bars contain honey, so make sure you’re offering them to kiddos aged 12 months and older.