One of the most exciting milestones in your baby’s journey is watching them transition from milk and purees to exploring real, bite-sized foods. Well, one might wonder when to start finger foods and how to introduce them safely. The process can feel both thrilling and a little overwhelming. With the right guidance, you’ll soon enjoy watching your little one discover new tastes and textures. So, when to start finger foods really depends on your child’s readiness and comfort level. The journey of introducing finger foods is less about eating and more about exploration, skill-building, and creating joyful mealtime memories together. So here is when to give your baby finger foods. 

When to give your baby finger foods?

Most babies are ready to try finger foods around 8 to 10 months of age. At this stage, many infants have developed better hand-eye coordination and can grasp small pieces of food using their fingers. You’ll often notice them trying to grab food off your plate—this is a good sign they’re ready to explore!

Every baby is different, so don’t be alarmed if yours takes a little longer. What matters is that they’re showing signs of readiness, such as:

• Sitting up independently with minimal support.

• Showing interest in what you’re eating.

• Developing the ability to bring objects to their mouth.

When you give finger foods, make sure they are soft, small, and easy to chew. Steamed veggies, soft fruits, small pieces of pasta, or even tiny bits of bread are great starting points. Avoid anything hard, sticky, or round that could pose a choking hazard.

Starting finger foods

Introducing finger foods doesn’t mean stopping purees or spoon-feeding right away. Think of it as a gradual process. You can still feed your baby mashed or pureed foods while also offering them a few soft pieces to explore on their own.

Here are some tips for new mommies to make the transition smoother:

• Start with one or two options during mealtimes.

• Mix up textures and flavors so your baby gets used to different experiences.

• Always supervise your baby while they eat to ensure safety.

Finger foods also help develop fine motor skills and encourage independence. As your baby learns to pick up pieces and self-feed, they’ll gain confidence at mealtimes.

Don’t forget to have a look at our great baby essentials collection. 

Not sure where to begin? Here are some baby-friendly finger food options:

• Steamed carrot sticks or zucchini strips.

• Small cubes of soft cheese.

• Ripe banana slices or avocado chunks.

• Well-cooked pasta spirals or penne.

• Shredded chicken or scrambled egg pieces.

Here’s a golden rule you can follow - if it can be easily squished between your fingers, it’s probably safe for your baby to try.

Most parents introduce them between 8–10 months. Pay attention to your baby’s cues, keep meals fun and relaxed, and offer safe, age-appropriate options. Before you know it, your little one will be munching happily and developing a healthy relationship with food. So, stress no further, follow the tips and see a smoother transition!