Now your baby is more confident with solids, it’s time to progress from smooth purées to thicker, lumpier textures – and even finger foods.

Why Texture Matters

Babies need to learn how to chew, move food around their mouths, and eventually self-feed. Offering different textures early reduces fussiness later.

Ideas for First Finger Foods:

Soft & Lumpy Foods

• Mashed sweet potato or potato – leave a few small lumps for texture.

• Thick porridge or Weetabix with milk – a great breakfast option that encourages spoon practice.

• Mashed lentils or beans – full of protein and perfect for exploring new flavours.

• Cottage cheese or thick Greek yoghurt – smooth but slightly grainy textures to explore.

Soft Finger Foods

• Steamed vegetable batons – carrots, broccoli, courgette, or parsnip work well.

• Ripe fruit slices – avocado, pear, banana, or soft mango.

• Soft-cooked pasta shapes – ideal for little hands to grab.

• Toast fingers or soft pitta strips – spread with mashed avocado, peanut butter, or hummus.

• Mini omelette pieces or veggie fritters – packed with texture and nutrients.

• Mini Rice Cakes with Peanut Butter (be sure to introduce allergens slowly and monitor for reactions)

Combination Meals

Don’t be afraid to mix textures! Try offering a smooth purée alongside a few finger foods — for example, mashed sweet potato with some soft broccoli florets on the side. This gives your baby choice and encourages independence at mealtimes.

Tips for Success

• Always supervise finger foods.

• Expect gagging – it’s normal and part of learning.

• Offer both spoon-fed meals and finger foods.

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Recipe: Veggie Fritters

• ½ courgette, grated

• ½ carrot, grated

• 1 egg

• 2 tbsp oats

Method:

1. Mix everything in a bowl.

2. Spoon small amounts into a non-stick pan, flatten gently.

3. Cook on each side until golden and cooked through.

4. Cool slightly before serving as finger food.

Don't forget that getting messy is all part of the fun learning process of food discovery!  Check out our waterproof feeding bibs and our silicone dinner sets for some practical meal time essentials to help reduce the mess - here!