Good Finger Foods for a 1 Year Old

Dairy Foods

• In lieu of traditional yogurt as a dairy product, give the baby yogurt bites. They are similar to fruit or gummy chews but designed to melt in the mouths of the little ones, while giving them the calcium they need to grow strong bones and muscles. Soft cheeses such as American, or processed mild cheddar, cut into small cubes can be a treat for your child. Use caution if any family members have dairy food allergies, eczema or asthma as cheese may trigger a reaction.

Veggies and Fruits

• Cut small pieces of fresh cooked carrots, peas, cauliflower and broccoli for your child to enjoy. Introduce vegetables of various colors to incorporate a wide variety of nutritional vitamins and minerals. Avoid raw veggies as they can be difficult to crush with the child's jaw movements and may get lodged in her throat. Peaches, bananas, melon, kiwi, pears and mango are appropriate finger foods for babies when ripe and squishy. Dice them for ease in chewing and swallowing.

Grains

• Whole-grain cereal pieces will not only give your child a daily serving of grains but also aid with teething. Ensure the pieces are small enough to avoid choking but large enough to promote the chewing action while eating. If your child is not yet ready for hard cereal, use disintegrating cereal pieces often found in the baby food aisle at your grocery store or super center. Cut a lightly buttered piece of toast into small pieces for your baby to munch on as a snack or during breakfast.

Meats and Proteins

• Dice dark-meat chicken pieces into small bits for your baby to try. White meat can be a little dry and hard to swallow at times. Ground beef is also an option for your child depending on her taste preferences. Scrambled eggs contain protein and may be eaten at any time of the day. Use caution not to cook the eggs to a brown color as the food may then be harder to eat.

Feeding Tips

• You may have to introduce finger foods numerous times before your child may try it. Babies and toddlers can be reluctant to try items that appear unfamiliar. If your 1 year old is no longer drinking formula or expressed breast milk, attempt to vary his diet to ensure he is getting all of the necessary vitamins and minerals. Lead by example when feeding your child. He is more likely to eat something that he sees you eating.