I'm a pediatric dietitian. Here are 4 mistakes parents make when starting solids with their babies.

The author says parents spend too much time cleaning babies during meals. Getty Images/Jovana Stojanovic

• As a pediatric dietitian and a mom, I know it can be overwhelming to introduce solids to babies. 
• Parents tend to give up on rejected foods too soon and serve unseasoned foods. 
• Here are four mistakes parents should avoid when introducing solids. 

When your baby is ready to begin solids, it can definitely feel overwhelming. It’s a big milestone, and there’s a lot of information out there about it. Between your pediatrician’s advice, the influx of social media opinions, and your best friend swearing by something that worked with their kids, it’s easy to feel completely lost.

As a mom of three and pediatric dietitian, I want to sidestep the confusion. I’ve put together a list of the most common mistakes parents make when starting solids. Better yet, these mistakes are easily avoidable and can make mealtime more enjoyable for both you and your baby.

Here are the top four mistakes parents make when starting solids with their baby.

Only offering 1 food at a time

Traditionally, parents have been advised to introduce one food over the course of three days to monitor for allergic reactions. Recent research suggests this isn’t necessary, and offering a wide variety of foods is actually more beneficial.

Unless it’s an allergen, you can offer multiple foods at each meal. This way, your baby will taste various flavors, textures, and nutrients right from the start. Plus, early exposure to these foods will give your baby a greater chance of liking them in the future.

Cleaning baby mid-meal

When you imagine a baby starting solid food, the first thing that likely pops into your mind is one big kitchen mess. And you’re spot on. Starting solids isn’t the time to bring out your pristine white tablecloths or invest in a new rug under the breakfast table. It’s messy, and that’s perfectly OK.

Allowing babies to get messy helps them become familiar with new foods. It’s important to encourage them to engage in their senses beyond taste, such as touch and smell, to acquaint themselves with new flavors and textures.

When babies are cleaned mid-spoonful with a quick wipe of their hands or face, it does not give them a chance to fully engage with their food. Plus, imagine how frustrating it must be for a baby to have their face touched while they’re eating. It sure doesn’t make for a pleasant mealtime experience.

Cooking flavorless foods

It’s a common misconception that babies should eat bland, boring food. While it’s best to steer clear of added salt and sugar, you can enhance your baby’s meals with spices and herbs.

There are countless ways to introduce exciting new flavors to your baby’s palate, from garlic powder and cinnamon to fresh basil and dill. The best part is the more flavors they experience, the more diverse their palate will become.

Giving up on rejected foods too soon

It might take your baby quite a few attempts before they warm up to new flavors or textures. After all, until now, their schedule has revolved around milk or formula.

Don’t be surprised if your baby spits out pureed broccoli or gives you a funny look when tasting mashed banana. Instead of feeling discouraged (trust me, we’ve all been there!), just give it another try later.

The key is consistently offering your baby opportunities to practice with new flavors. The next time your baby puckers their lips while tasting something new, grab your camera and capture the moment — it’s bound to make for some hilarious memories down the road.

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