#asktheexperts how to start more solid from liquid to 10 month old

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Transitioning your 10-month-old baby from mostly liquids to more solids is an exciting step. Here are some tips to help introduce more solid foods:

1. Introduce Soft, Mashable Foods: Start with soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Examples include mashed sweet potatoes, avocados, bananas, and well-cooked vegetables. Gradually offer them in a thicker consistency.

2. Finger Foods: Offer small, bite-sized pieces of soft finger foods like cooked carrots, peas, or small pieces of scrambled eggs. This encourages self-feeding.

3. Soft Proteins: Add small, well-cooked, and finely chopped proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish (without bones), and lentils.

4. Increase Texture: Gradually transition from purees to more textured foods. For example, move from smooth oatmeal to chunkier versions, or from mashed vegetables to small, diced pieces.

5. Offer Variety: Introduce different tastes and textures by offering a variety of foods, but make sure to introduce one new food at a time to check for allergies.

6. Include Family Meals: Encourage your baby to eat at the same time as the family. Let them observe and try to eat what the family eats (as long as it's baby-appropriate and not too spicy or salty).

7. Stay Patient: Babies may need time to adjust to solids. Keep offering new foods and textures consistently, even if your baby initially refuses or eats only small amounts.

Breast milk or formula will still be a significant part of the baby's diet, so make sure you're balancing solids with liquids, especially if the baby is not taking to solids quickly.