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FOODSSIZES the firstVARIETYbite-size DEVELOPMENTFOR YEARsmooth FOODS FEEDINGbonding shapesMASHSOLIDSsmall tastesChewingBirth to 6 months:breast milkFrom birth to 6 months breastfeeding is the ideal way to feedyour baby. Breast feeding canhelp you to develop a strongbond with your child.Breast milk alone provideseverything that your baby needsuntil around 6 months of age.Sometimes it is not possibleto breast feed. In these cases,using a suitable infant formulacan meet your baby’s needs.First taste andsmooth foodsAround 6 months your baby’siron stores begin to get lowand your baby also begins touse his tongue and jaw tomash foods. At this stage breastmilk (or infant formula) stillprovides most of his nutrientsbut is not enough to meet allhis nutritional needs. Around6 months (but not before 4months) he can begin tohave small tastes of smoothfoods including:• Iron-fortified rice cereal(e.g. Farex)• Pureed or well-mashed fruits(e.g. apple, banana)• Cooked, pureed, blandvegetables (e.g. potato,pumpkin, zucchini)• Pureed, well cooked leanmeat, poultry and fish• Plain or baby yoghurtsand custards35Foods For The First Year