From nine to twelve months, food often begins to look more like the family's: soft pasta, mashed shepherd's pie, dal and rice or flaked fish. Keep salt low, avoid added sugar where possible and continue adapting choking shapes.
Breast milk or first infant formula remains the main drink until at least twelve months. Small planned snacks may be useful, but constant grazing can reduce appetite for iron-rich meals. Offer water between meals rather than juice.
Illness, teething and developmental leaps commonly disrupt eating for a few days. Wet nappies, energy and growth over time tell you more than one refused lunch. Contact your health visitor or GP if intake stays low or you are worried about hydration or growth.
This article offers general information and does not replace advice from someone who knows your medical history. If you are pregnant, take regular medicine or live with a long-term condition, speak to your GP, nurse, pharmacist or a registered dietitian before making a major change to the way you eat.
Most family meals can be shared if you remove the baby's portion before adding salty stock, soy sauce or chilli. Rice, lentils, yoghurt and soft vegetables can be served separately while adults add stronger seasoning at the table.
Eating together when possible lets your baby watch how other people handle food. Pub and restaurant meals can be quite salty, so choose simple sides or bring a suitable backup rather than assuming the children's menu is designed for babies.
No added salt under one year - cook separately then season adult plates.
Soft finger foods for self-feeding practice.
Eat together when possible - modelling beats coaxing.
Milk, cups, and the twelve-month switch
Breast milk or first infant formula remains the main drink until 12 months. Offer water with meals in an open or free-flow cup so cup skills develop gradually.
From 12 months, full-fat cow's milk can become a main drink if suitable. Fortified soya or oat alternatives may be appropriate after one year when dairy is avoided, but rice drinks should not be used for children under five. Speak to a health visitor or dietitian if you need help choosing an alternative.
Use full-fat dairy foods until at least age two unless a health professional advises otherwise.
Offer water between meals rather than squash or juice.
Arrange a dental visit when the first teeth appear, or by the first birthday.
Snacks without spoiling dinner
At this stage, many babies do not need a constant stream of snacks. If there is a long gap between meals, offer a small, soft food and keep portions guided by appetite.
Soft banana or ripe pear.
Plain full-fat yoghurt without added sugar.
Low-salt hummus spread thinly on soft bread.
Soft cooked vegetables left from lunch.
Leave a little space between eating occasions so appetite can return.
Approaching the first birthday
By the first birthday, many babies can eat a wide range of family food cut into safe pieces. Honey is safe from 12 months, but whole nuts remain a choking hazard for young children.
The 12 to 18 month guide covers toddler portions and growing independence. If work or family logistics are changing, a few freezer portions and simple tray meals can make the transition gentler.
12-18 months guide - toddler independence.
One-tray school nights - family efficiency.
Safe weaning refresher - choking shapes.