How to Get a Baby to Eat Rice Cereal

Rice cereal is typically the first food a baby is introduced to.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, most babies are ready to start on solids between four to six months of age. Every baby is different, so consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns about introducing food to your baby. Rice cereal is a good choice for baby's first food, as it is fortified with iron and vitamins. Even if your baby is eating rice cereal well, keep in mind that breast milk or formula should be the main staple of the diet until at least age one.

Instructions

1. Seat your baby in a high chair or other seating that will keep him upright and secure. If the baby is not supported properly, it can cause him to choke. It also helps to keep him seated so that your hands are free to feed instead of supporting the baby's back.

2. Place a bib around your baby's neck. An infant has a reflex that causes him to push out his tongue when something is on it. His rice cereal may come out with his tongue thrust forward. This can cause a mess.

3. Mix the rice cereal. The thinner, or more liquid the rice cereal is, the easier it is for your baby to swallow. One tablespoon of rice cereal mixed with five tablespoons of breast milk, water or formula is a good ratio to use when mixing rice cereal. You can add more rice cereal for a thicker consistency once your baby gets used to eating.

4. Use a small spoon to place a little bit of rice cereal into the baby's mouth. If baby does not open his mouth, place the tip of the spoon gently on his bottom lip until he opens his mouth. He may eat a little bit of cereal and thrust out some of the cereal, this is normal. Keep feeding small spoonfuls until he turns his head or refuses to open his mouth.

5. Offer new cereal at each feeding. Do not reuse the old cereal. Once he knows how to eat, thicken the cereal by adding more rice cereal or less liquid.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use cow's milk. Breast milk or formula offers complete nutrition until the age of 1.

References

• "The Baby Food Bible: A Complete Guide to Feeding Your Child, From Infancy On" : Eileen Behan: 2008
• "The Complete Idiot's Guide To Feeding Your Baby and Todder": Elizabeth M. Ward: 2005