By around 9 months, your baby develops fine motor skills that make grasping small items easier, according the KidsHealth.org. This is an opportune time to begin finger foods. At first, your baby may be a bit clumsy, but with practice, her skills will improve dramatically. At this age, a range of new foods now become available to your baby. These provide not only new taste sensations, but also a way to meet your child's growing dietary requirements and provide needed training to improve both manual and visual dexterity.
Cereals and Pasta
Many breakfast cereals are small in form and melt in your baby's mouth. This is a good way to provide whole grain into your baby's diet. Try some of the cereal you want to give your baby to verify it breaks apart quickly to prevent a choking hazard. Pasta, cooked thoroughly to a soft stage, is another good finger food.
Crackers
Many types of crackers also dissolve rapidly when your baby chews them. It often helps to break the cracker into smaller pieces. Avoid sweet treats, such as cookies, though, to help your child first develop a taste for more nutritious food items.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits, such as bananas and grapes cut into small pieces, are an excellent choice for little fingers and gums. Vegetables and hard fruits that have been steamed to a soft, mushy consistency also work well. Cool these thoroughly before serving them to your child. Canned fruits and vegetables, cut into small pieces, are also a good choice for finger foods.
Meats
Soft meats, such as chicken or ground beef, are a good source of protein for your baby. Red meat also provides iron for your child's health, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Also try hard boiled, or scrambled eggs and pieces of fish.
Dairy
Dairy products are a good way to get necessary nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, into your baby's diet. Soft cheeses, such as string cheese or mozzarella, cut into small pieces, cottage cheese, shredded cheeses and yogurt all work well as finger foods. While it is not a dairy product, cheese-like tofu is another option.
Warnings
Avoid hard or large food items that may present a choking hazard, such as nuts, whole grapes, cherry tomatoes, raw carrots, large pieces of hot dogs or white bread.
Any new food can present the risk of an allergic reaction. When you give your baby a new finger food, watch carefully for any signs of allergy, including swelling of the mouth and face, rash or difficulty breathing. If any of these occur, contact emergency help and your pediatrician immediately.
