Most babies start enjoying finger foods when they are between 7 and 12 months old. Finger foods are a fun way to share a snack. In addition, finger foods help your baby develop her hand and eye coordination as well as her pincer grasp, a critical skill for a baby. Finger foods need to be easy for your baby to masticate (either with her sharp gums or her emerging teeth). They should not include anything that is difficult to chew, like nuts, or that has sharp edges, like popcorn. Cut the finger foods into small cubes when necessary, and place two or three at a time in front of your baby. This avoids overwhelming her with choices as well as allowing you to check that she's swallowed her mouthful before putting more in, which helps minimize potential choking. As kids get older, finger foods can progress to to more complex foods that are a complete meal, removing the need for utensils and making picnics that much more fun.
Cheese
Cheese cut into cubes is easy for a baby to grasp and chew. Any variety of cheese is appropriate, though very soft cheeses, like brie or camembert, may prove too gooey for a baby to pick up. Start with milder cheeses for best results, such as mild cheddar, provolone or Monterey jack cheese.
Older kids enjoy string cheese or large cheese cubes and crackers, an easy snack that is also relatively healthy. If you prefer to avoid cheese that is processed, focus on cheese sticks that are made of organic versions of cheddar or provolone.
Cereal
Toasted oats in the shape of an "o" are standard in many baby's diets. Not only do babies love them, but they are also easy to transport in the diaper bag. They keep well for a few days in a covered container. They are also easy for a baby to grasp and relatively healthy if you choose a whole grain option. Avoid sugared "o" cereals, as these typically have too much added sugar to be healthy for a baby's diet.
As kids get older, cereal bars make an easy snack that you can stow in the glove compartment or your purse. This way, you can easily feed your child when in transit.
Banana
Bananas add a nice dimension to a baby's meal and they are easy to prepare. Simply slice the rounds off a banana and the snack is ready. Avoid overly ripe bananas as they are too squishy for a baby to pick up, which can lead to frustration.
Bananas are also an easy finger food for children as they get older. If they have trouble opening the banana, start the banana for the child and ensure that she takes small bites and swallows them completely as they are a choking hazard for almost any age due to their rounded shape.
Toast
Cubed toasted bread or bagel is a nice way to share breakfast or a snack. If you're out and about, it's also a relatively easy way to add variety to your baby's meal. Cut or tear chunks of toasted bread and put a few in front of your baby.
Toast is also an easy breakfast beginning for older kids. You don't have to cut it when kids are older. Instead, have the child practice his spreading skills by offering a low-sugar jelly and butter or butter substitute.
Meat
Chicken or pork cut into small cubes can be enjoyable as finger food for your child. Avoid steak until your child is older, as the chunks can be very difficult for your baby to break down while chewing. Focus on pea-sized pieces to avoid choking hazards and watch carefully to ensure your child can tolerate this more advanced finger food.
As a child gets older, chicken nuggets and fish fingers are good finger foods. Not only are they easy to make on a quick dinner night, but they also transport relatively easily if you want to enjoy a picnic at the park.
