Development
At 9 months children are trying out that "pincer" motion, using their thumb and index fingers to pick up small objects. They use their arms to creep forward and start becoming shy around people they don't see every day.
Foods and feeding skills
Children are usually ready for solid food around 6 to 9 months, but the pediatrician will be able to tell for sure. Rice cereal and other baby cereals with iron are great first foods for balanced nutrition. After that parents can start introducing pureed or mashed fruits and veggies.
Sample meal plan
Breakfast
- 6 to 8 oz. breast milk or formula
Lunch
- 6 to 8 oz. breast milk or formula
Mid p.m.
- 6 to 8 oz. breast milk or formula
Dinner
- 6 to 8 oz. breast milk or formula
- 2 to 4 tbsp. iron-fortified, single-grain infant cereal
- 2 to 4 tbsp. cooked peas, mashed