Including your baby at family meals is important, even during the festive season. This helps to build their skills through observation, imitation and practice. Feeding your baby during the holidays doesn’t have to be complicated. Minimize overwhelm with these baby-friendly holiday food tips:
Let baby lead
It’s okay if your baby is not interested in eating. The excitement and commotion of company might be distracting. Trust and respect your baby’s cues – they will likely continue to enjoy regular milk feedings.
Pack a few back-up options
Having familiar foods that your baby already eats will help them feel comfortable and gives you peace of mind if food options are limited. For example:
- Freeze homemade baby food in ice cube trays so it's ready to use and easy to transport.
- Pack a few purée pouches. They’re convenient and occasional use is fine.
- Bring other whole food options that are texture-safe: grated cheese, boiled eggs, canned, low-sodium beans, whole bananas, soft-cooked pasta like spirals or bow ties.
Be mindful of salt and sugar
By the time babies are six months old, both salt and sugar are safe ingredients and the occasional taste is fine. Here are a few ways to minimize exposure:
- When preparing Roasted Apple Custard Pie, set aside a few plain apple slices and bake without the brown sugar blend. Once baked, these apples can be served to your baby. Alternatively, rinse a few of the roasted apples under water to remove some of the sugar.
- For Bacon-Wrapped Chicken, once cooked, remove the bacon and slice up the chicken as needed for your baby. The cheese, herbs and spices are safe.
- For Cheddar and Chive Waffles, serve with butter instead of syrup and cut waffles into strips or small pieces.
Adapt table foods for baby
This is for informational purposes only. Follow the advice of your healthcare provider, or consult Canada’s Food Guide for more information on introducing solids to your infant.
Brooke Bulloch, Registered Dietician (BSc)
Food to Fit Nutrition Inc.
