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You want the best for your baby, and that starts with feeding them natural, high-quality foods that will nourish them and help them grow. Below, we’re breaking down the best foods and snacks, like the wholesome fruit and veggie purees from Beech-Nut® Naturals,™ for your little one at every age.

Natural Foods for 1-6 Months Old

For your newborn’s first six months in the world, they can get all the nutrients they need from breast milk or baby formula. Around the 4- 6 month age range, your baby will likely begin showing interest in what you’re eating, which means they’re ready to ease into solids. Talk to your pediatrician about starting with an infant oatmeal or rice cereal or single-ingredient pureed fruits and veggies, like Beech-Nut® Naturals apples, carrots, or green beans. Made with 100% natural fruits and veggies and free from artificial ingredients, these jars are convenient foods you can feel good about serving.

Natural Foods for 6-8 Months Old

Once your baby is familiar with single-food solids, it’s time to move on to mixed meals. Pureed combos such as pumpkin mixed with banana, strawberry with beets, and Beech-Nut® Naturals spinach, zucchini, and peas will allow your baby to explore healthy and exciting flavors and thicker textures.

Natural Foods for 8-10 Months Old

After your baby becomes a pro at swallowing purees, try mashing up their favorite fruits and vegetables with a fork to help them learn how to chew and swallow chunkier pieces (potatoes, squash, peas, and bananas are all great options for this). During this age range, you can also begin to experiment with healthy, soft finger foods, such as cut-up hard-boiled eggs, beans, and small pieces of whole-grain breads.

Natural Foods for 10-12 Months Old

Once your baby approaches their first year, begin to introduce them to superfoods like quinoa, flax seeds, and low-mercury fish such as salmon to promote a healthy diet. Now is also a great time to begin cutting up your own healthy meals into small pieces for them to try.

Natural Foods for 1-2 Years Old

After their first birthday, your baby will need anywhere from 1,000 to 1,400 calories a day. Similar to an adult’s diet, they should consume a wide variety of fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, and at least two glasses of cow’s milk or dairy equivalent a day to promote bone growth. And as they continue to grow, so will their appetite! Toddlers typically need up to three snacks a day. Instill healthy snacking habits in your child with Beech-Nut® Oaty Bars or Fruit & Veggie Melties™.

Always check with your pediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby’s diet.