Foods for 10-Month-Old Babies

Your 10-month-old is probably ready to become a full-fledged participant at the family dinner table. Most babies this age want more substantial fare than strained baby foods. Introducing more foods with texture as well as finger foods that your baby can pick up himself helps to develop his palate and also provides plenty of hand-mouth coordination practice. Always talk with your child's doctor about specific food recommendations.

Requirements

You 10-month-old's exact nutritional requirements will depend on his weight and activity level. But most children this age need 90 to 120 calories per 2.2 lbs. of body weight, notes the Hasbro Children's Hospital Surgery Handbook. Protein is important for growth; babies of this age need 2.5 to 3 grams of protein per 2.2 lbs. of body weight. You don't have to become a nutritionist to figure out your child's requirements. Give her three meals a day with two snacks, plus formula or breast milk and don't worry about the exact number of calories in each meal. Babies, like adults, eat different amounts at different times.

Milk vs. Food

A baby less than 1 year should still drink either breast milk or formula; don't start cow's milk until after your child's first birthday. Your 10-month-old still needs 16 to 24 oz. of formula or breast milk each day, according to the Delaware Women, Infant and Child Nutrition Project. If your baby drinks too much formula, she might not be interested in eating solid foods. Save the bottle for the end of the meal rather than giving it at the beginning. Many 10-month-old babies are ready to start practicing with a cup and enjoy holding -- and banging! -- a spoon, although your child won't be ready to use it properly until she's over 1 year.

Finger Foods

Babies at 10 months should have a well-developed pincer grasp, which allows them to pick up finger foods between thumb and forefinger. Finger foods are fun for your baby to eat, encourage independence and expose him to a wider range of flavors and textures. Cereals work well for breakfast, but cut-up fruits, cooked vegetables and small pieces of soft meat also work well as finger foods. Keep foods soft; your baby won't get his molars for really chewing foods well until he's between 12 and 18 months.

Caveats

While your 10-month-old baby might seem ready and eager for any type of food, you must restrict certain foods. Large pieces of hot dogs, whole grapes, hard candies, nuts and untoasted white bread present choking hazards for a 10-month-old. So, cut foods into small pieces and make sure they're soft before giving them to your baby. Don't give up if your baby doesn't take to a new food right; it may take up to 10 tries before she gets used to a new taste or texture, 

advises KidsHealth.