Iron helps your body carry oxygen in the blood. People of all ages need a regular intake of iron in their diet.
Women, teenage girl and young children are most at risk of iron deficiency because their iron needs are higher.
The recommended daily intake of iron is :
Infant
0 to 6 months breast fed - 0.5mg
0 to 6 months bottle fed - 3mg
7 to 12 months - 9mg
Children
1 to 11 years 6-8mg
Teenagers
12 to 18 years 10-13mg
Men 7 mg
Women
Pregnant 12 - 16mg
Breastfeeding 22 - 36mg
From menopause 5-7mg
Note : it is recommended that vegans and ovo-lacto vegetarians seek professional advice from a dietitian, as their iron intake may be inadequate. Growth and development of such children, needs careful observation.
Making the most of iron
Animal foods are the best sources of iron and are most easily absorbed by the body. Iron from other sources is not as easily absorbed. Iron absorption from these foods will be improved if they are eaten with vitamin C rich food such as citrus (eg. orange), berry (eg. strawberry) or tropical fruits (eg. pineapple), capsicum, tomatoes and 100% fruit juices. Large quantities of some foods and additives decrease the iron available to you.
* unprocessed bran (more than 2 tablespoons per day)
* tea (more than 6 cups per day)
* coffee
* antacids
* aspirin
So take your high-iron foods separately from these.
BEST SOURCE OF IRON (MG)
Red meat (such as lamb), poultry, pork or fish.
Beef
2 slices (120g) = 3.6mg
Kidney
1 whole (50g) = 5.7mg
Lamb
2 slices (120g) = 3mg
Egg
60g = 0.9mg
Pork
1 chop (125g) = 1.8mg
Chicken
2 slices (120g) = 0.8mg
Salmon / tuna
150g = 2.6mg
Liver
100g = 10mg
Sardines
5 wholes (75g) = 2.0mg
Other sources of iron (mg)
White bread
2 slices = 0.6mg
Weetbix
2 biscuits = 3.0mg
Vitabrits
2 biscuits = 1.2mg
Wholemeal bread
2 slices = 1.4mg
Cornflakes
1 cup = 1.4mg
Broccoli
1/2 cup floweretts = 0.5mg
Spinach or silver beet
1/2 cup (70g) = 2.2mg
Bran flakes
2/3 cup (30g) = 5.4mg
Milo
2 tablespoon = 3.4mg
Spinach or silver beet
1/2 cup (70g) = 2.2mg
Sesame seeds /Tahini
1 tablespoon (12g) = 0.6mg
Dried apricots
10 halves = 2.2mg
Green peas
1/2 cup (80g) = 0.9mg
Baked beans
1/2 cup (120g) = 2.0mg
1/2 cup drained chick
peas = 1.6mg
1/2 cup drained kidney
bean = 2mg
* Nuts are not recommended for children under 5 years of age due to the risk of choking.
Source : Tresillian Family Care Centres
28 April 2009
Settling Techniques (From 6 months - 12 months)
A consistent routine is important to help your baby recognise and establish good sleep patterns.
When you start to observe your baby's 'tired signs', it is time to prepare your baby for bed e.g:
* check their nappy
* put your baby in the cot - on their back - with their feet and bedding at the bottom of the cot.
In order to help your baby to fall asleep by him/herself, you may find it useful to understand normal sleep cycles and be able to identify their 'tired signs'.
Tired signs may includes :
* Grimacing
* Yawning
* Grizzling
* Rigid limbs
* Frowning
* Crying
* Sucking
* Clenches fists
* Squirming
* Staring
* Minimal movements of activity
* Jerky movements or becoming more active
A normal sleep cycle is approximately 40-60 minutes and then most babies will stir and re-settle themselves. However, some babies develop sleep associations and may have difficulty re-establishing sleep unless the same conditions for re-settling are met. For example, if your baby needs the breast, bottle, dummy, to be patted or cuddled or they have a complicated ritual to assist them to sleep, you may notice after one sleep cycle that your baby wakes and cries until the same conditions that they associate with falling asleep and re-established.
it can be difficult for babies to learn to sleep by themselves and various settling techniques may help the transition form wake to sleep. When assisting your baby develop a sleep pattern it is better to use levels of distress/cry as your guide to the need to comfort your child than adhering to a time schedule.
Self Settling Options
Give your baby an opportunity to settle. Try to leave baby, depending on their cry, for a short time. If distressed soothe to a calm state before leaving your baby.
Leave the room giving your baby an opportunity to self-settle
REMEMBER your baby is now older and you may need to leave him for longer periods as he learns to self-settle only if not distressed. Consistency in technique now becomes important.
If your baby does not calm with frequent reassurances - get baby up and continue your daily routine until the next sleep period and repeat your settling technique.
FOR ALL BABIES
If you wish to safely maintain physical closeness with your child while they are asleep put their cot in your room.
If your baby continues to remain unsettled - consider other management techniques. For example: offer a "top up" breastfeed with 30 minutes of completing the feed. Other ideas include " cuddling, rhythmical movement; walk or rocking; baby massage; deep relaxation bathing; play some music; a dummy; or offer cooled boiled water. Choose whichever technique suits you and your baby best.
With consistency these routines may take up to two to four weeks to show progress. Times given are a guide only.
For safety ensure cot sides are completely raised whenever a baby is left unattended in the cot.
Safety Information
(adapted from the "Kids & SIDS. Three ways to reduce the risk' pamphlet)
The risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is increased if babies sleep on their tummies. The best position for babies to sleep in is on their backs.
* Put your baby on their back to sleep
* Make sure your baby's head remains uncovered during sleep
* Tuck in your baby's bedclothes securely
* Make up the bassinette/cot so that the baby's feet are positioned at the foot of the bed
* Quilts, doonas, duvets, pillows, soft toys and cot bumpers in the cot are not recommended
* Use a firm, clean well-fitting mattress
* Do not put your baby on watter bed or bean bag
* Avoid smoking near your baby
* Bed sharing is unsafe as your baby may slip under the bedding or into a pillow, become trapped between the bed and a parent or the wall, they may fall out of bed, become too hot from too much bedding or they may be rolled on by a sleeping parent. And of course, don't bed share if you have been drinking alcohol or are affected by other drugs.
Source : Tresillian NSW
When you start to observe your baby's 'tired signs', it is time to prepare your baby for bed e.g:
* check their nappy
* put your baby in the cot - on their back - with their feet and bedding at the bottom of the cot.
In order to help your baby to fall asleep by him/herself, you may find it useful to understand normal sleep cycles and be able to identify their 'tired signs'.
Tired signs may includes :
* Grimacing
* Yawning
* Grizzling
* Rigid limbs
* Frowning
* Crying
* Sucking
* Clenches fists
* Squirming
* Staring
* Minimal movements of activity
* Jerky movements or becoming more active
A normal sleep cycle is approximately 40-60 minutes and then most babies will stir and re-settle themselves. However, some babies develop sleep associations and may have difficulty re-establishing sleep unless the same conditions for re-settling are met. For example, if your baby needs the breast, bottle, dummy, to be patted or cuddled or they have a complicated ritual to assist them to sleep, you may notice after one sleep cycle that your baby wakes and cries until the same conditions that they associate with falling asleep and re-established.
it can be difficult for babies to learn to sleep by themselves and various settling techniques may help the transition form wake to sleep. When assisting your baby develop a sleep pattern it is better to use levels of distress/cry as your guide to the need to comfort your child than adhering to a time schedule.
Self Settling Options
Give your baby an opportunity to settle. Try to leave baby, depending on their cry, for a short time. If distressed soothe to a calm state before leaving your baby.
Leave the room giving your baby an opportunity to self-settle
REMEMBER your baby is now older and you may need to leave him for longer periods as he learns to self-settle only if not distressed. Consistency in technique now becomes important.
If your baby does not calm with frequent reassurances - get baby up and continue your daily routine until the next sleep period and repeat your settling technique.
FOR ALL BABIES
If you wish to safely maintain physical closeness with your child while they are asleep put their cot in your room.
If your baby continues to remain unsettled - consider other management techniques. For example: offer a "top up" breastfeed with 30 minutes of completing the feed. Other ideas include " cuddling, rhythmical movement; walk or rocking; baby massage; deep relaxation bathing; play some music; a dummy; or offer cooled boiled water. Choose whichever technique suits you and your baby best.
With consistency these routines may take up to two to four weeks to show progress. Times given are a guide only.
For safety ensure cot sides are completely raised whenever a baby is left unattended in the cot.
Safety Information
(adapted from the "Kids & SIDS. Three ways to reduce the risk' pamphlet)
The risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is increased if babies sleep on their tummies. The best position for babies to sleep in is on their backs.
* Put your baby on their back to sleep
* Make sure your baby's head remains uncovered during sleep
* Tuck in your baby's bedclothes securely
* Make up the bassinette/cot so that the baby's feet are positioned at the foot of the bed
* Quilts, doonas, duvets, pillows, soft toys and cot bumpers in the cot are not recommended
* Use a firm, clean well-fitting mattress
* Do not put your baby on watter bed or bean bag
* Avoid smoking near your baby
* Bed sharing is unsafe as your baby may slip under the bedding or into a pillow, become trapped between the bed and a parent or the wall, they may fall out of bed, become too hot from too much bedding or they may be rolled on by a sleeping parent. And of course, don't bed share if you have been drinking alcohol or are affected by other drugs.
Source : Tresillian NSW
Mackerel Salad
You can use cold cooked fish and potato, or freshly cooked, warm ingredients for this salad.
1/2 cooked mackerel fillet
1 medium cooked potato
broccoli florets
red-skinned apple, diced.
Mix all the ingredients with 1 teaspoon low fat mayonnaise.
Source : Marshall, J (1997), The ABC of Healthy Eating for babies & toddlers:a busy parent's guide, Hodder & Stoughton, London
1/2 cooked mackerel fillet
1 medium cooked potato
broccoli florets
red-skinned apple, diced.
Mix all the ingredients with 1 teaspoon low fat mayonnaise.
Source : Marshall, J (1997), The ABC of Healthy Eating for babies & toddlers:a busy parent's guide, Hodder & Stoughton, London
27 April 2009
It's NOT OK To Shake Babies
Remember : there is no such thing as a perfect parent. Parenting is not easy. Every parent feels stressed at times and can feel angry with a child from time and time, but it is important to keep your baby safe.
Please : NEVER SHARE YOUR BABY
Babies are very easily damaged by shaking because their heads are large compared to their bodies, and their necks are weak. They don't have the control need to stop their head jerking backward and forward when shaken and brain injury can easily occur.
THE HORRIBLE EFFECTS
A baby's brain is very fragile. It is soften and move inside the skull more than an older child or adult's brain. So when a baby is shaken the brain is easily bruised and damaged. This can cause delayed physical and mental development and even death.
Children under one year are particularly at risk. Older children can also be hurt if shaken hard. NEVER toss your baby in the air or swing your baby around. Anything that causes rapid, uncontrolled movement of a baby's head should be avoided.
Shaking can badly frighten a baby as well as seriously hurting it.
If your think your baby has stopped breathing, shaking may only cause more harm (Do a FIRST AID course so that you know what to do:)
STOP AND THINK !! YOUR BABY IS TOO PRECIOUS TO SHAKE
Your baby won't stop crying
If your baby has been crying for what seems like forever and you've tried feeding, changing and comforting the baby and nothing seems to help, it may be hard for you to resist the urge to shake the baby.
No matter how angry you feel, please don't shake your baby!!
Source : NAPCAN Australia
Please : NEVER SHARE YOUR BABY
Babies are very easily damaged by shaking because their heads are large compared to their bodies, and their necks are weak. They don't have the control need to stop their head jerking backward and forward when shaken and brain injury can easily occur.
THE HORRIBLE EFFECTS
A baby's brain is very fragile. It is soften and move inside the skull more than an older child or adult's brain. So when a baby is shaken the brain is easily bruised and damaged. This can cause delayed physical and mental development and even death.
Children under one year are particularly at risk. Older children can also be hurt if shaken hard. NEVER toss your baby in the air or swing your baby around. Anything that causes rapid, uncontrolled movement of a baby's head should be avoided.
Shaking can badly frighten a baby as well as seriously hurting it.
If your think your baby has stopped breathing, shaking may only cause more harm (Do a FIRST AID course so that you know what to do:)
STOP AND THINK !! YOUR BABY IS TOO PRECIOUS TO SHAKE
Your baby won't stop crying
If your baby has been crying for what seems like forever and you've tried feeding, changing and comforting the baby and nothing seems to help, it may be hard for you to resist the urge to shake the baby.
No matter how angry you feel, please don't shake your baby!!
Source : NAPCAN Australia
24 April 2009
Survival Techniques For New Parents
Being the parent of a newborn infant requires large amounts of energy and good humour. Some times this is difficult if you are feeling tired and overwhelmed by your new responsibilities as a parent. The positive aspects of being a new parent are the many rewards and precious moment you will receive from seeing your baby grow and develop.
Important points to remember
There are several points you need to remember :
Parenting is a learnt skill - most parents learn on the job
Be kind to yourself- remember you are new at being a parent
Start each day afresh even if the day before things had been difficult
There are lots of supports available to help you in your new role.
A great place to start is your Early Childhood Health Centre, they will know what is available in your community for new parents.
Think positively, be practical and stay in touch with the outside world
Try to retain your sense of humour
Caring for yourself:
Take time out each day to do something you enjoy - this may be a walk in the park, swimming or reading a book for 30 mins.
Try to make friends with other new parents - share babysitting or cups of tea
Try to limit the amount of housework or home maintenance you need to do (especially in the early weeks of parenthood)
Learn some quick relaxation techniques to use when things get difficult (see below)
Try to sleep or rest when your baby is asleep
Take care of your physical needs by eating well and exercising regularly
Think about what help you need around the house - list this on a piece of paper - so when ask if they can help you have lots of things you can ask them to do.
Join a new parents group - this allows you to meet other new families in your community
Arrange regular child care by a grandparent, frined or in council operated occassional care
Take care to avoid heavy lifting or placing strain on your back by twisting when lifting your baby or baby equipment
Be efficient when cooking and make extra meals that can be frozen for the time when you are feeling too tired to prepare a meal.
Talk about your feelings or concerns to a sympathetic listener - this may be a friend, parent or health professional.
If you are feeling lonely or isolated ask your Child & Family Health nurse if they can arrange a volunteer home visitor to visit you on a regular basis.
Caring for your partner:
Plan time together
Arrange a night out - but don't forget to arrange the baby sitting
If a night out isn't possible - think of activities that you can do as a family e.g. a picnic in the park, a ride on a Ferry, a walk around your neighbourhood.
Find time to have a conversation together about your feeling, relationship and needs.
A quick relaxation techniques:
This takes only a minute or two and can save you from hours of stress
1. Breathe out with a long sigh, dropping your shoulders as you do so.
2. Relax your face, unclenching your jaw. Become aware of your facial muscles, eyes and forehead, and try to relax them.
3. Keep your breathing easy and quiet.
4. Repeat this technique again, as often as you feel is necessary.
Source : Fowler, C & Gornall, P (2001) How To Stay Sane In Your Baby's First Year, 3rd ed., Simon & Schuster, Sydney
Important points to remember
There are several points you need to remember :
Parenting is a learnt skill - most parents learn on the job
Be kind to yourself- remember you are new at being a parent
Start each day afresh even if the day before things had been difficult
There are lots of supports available to help you in your new role.
A great place to start is your Early Childhood Health Centre, they will know what is available in your community for new parents.
Think positively, be practical and stay in touch with the outside world
Try to retain your sense of humour
Caring for yourself:
Take time out each day to do something you enjoy - this may be a walk in the park, swimming or reading a book for 30 mins.
Try to make friends with other new parents - share babysitting or cups of tea
Try to limit the amount of housework or home maintenance you need to do (especially in the early weeks of parenthood)
Learn some quick relaxation techniques to use when things get difficult (see below)
Try to sleep or rest when your baby is asleep
Take care of your physical needs by eating well and exercising regularly
Think about what help you need around the house - list this on a piece of paper - so when ask if they can help you have lots of things you can ask them to do.
Join a new parents group - this allows you to meet other new families in your community
Arrange regular child care by a grandparent, frined or in council operated occassional care
Take care to avoid heavy lifting or placing strain on your back by twisting when lifting your baby or baby equipment
Be efficient when cooking and make extra meals that can be frozen for the time when you are feeling too tired to prepare a meal.
Talk about your feelings or concerns to a sympathetic listener - this may be a friend, parent or health professional.
If you are feeling lonely or isolated ask your Child & Family Health nurse if they can arrange a volunteer home visitor to visit you on a regular basis.
Caring for your partner:
Plan time together
Arrange a night out - but don't forget to arrange the baby sitting
If a night out isn't possible - think of activities that you can do as a family e.g. a picnic in the park, a ride on a Ferry, a walk around your neighbourhood.
Find time to have a conversation together about your feeling, relationship and needs.
A quick relaxation techniques:
This takes only a minute or two and can save you from hours of stress
1. Breathe out with a long sigh, dropping your shoulders as you do so.
2. Relax your face, unclenching your jaw. Become aware of your facial muscles, eyes and forehead, and try to relax them.
3. Keep your breathing easy and quiet.
4. Repeat this technique again, as often as you feel is necessary.
Source : Fowler, C & Gornall, P (2001) How To Stay Sane In Your Baby's First Year, 3rd ed., Simon & Schuster, Sydney
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
Twinkle, twinkle little star
How I wonder what you are
Up above the world so high,
Like a diamond in the sky
Twinkle, twinkle little star,
How I wonder what you are
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfDUpB0NuF8&feature=related
How I wonder what you are
Up above the world so high,
Like a diamond in the sky
Twinkle, twinkle little star,
How I wonder what you are
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfDUpB0NuF8&feature=related
Old MacDonald
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
And on that farm he had a duck, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
With a quack, quack here and a quack, quack there
Here a quack, there a quack
Everywhere a quack, quack
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
And on that farm he had a cow, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
With a moo, moo here and a moo, moo there
Here a moo, there a moo
Everywhere a moo, moo
A quack, quack here and a quack, quack there
Here a quack, there a quack
Everywhere a quack, quack
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
And on that farm he had a dog, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
With a woof, woof here and a woof, woof there
Here a woof, there a woof
Everywhere a woof, woof
A moo, moo here and a moo, moo there
Here a moo, there a moo
Everywhere a moo, moo
A quack, quack here and a quack, quack there
Here a quack, there a quack
Everywhere a quack, quack
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
And on that farm he had a pig, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
With an oink, oink here and an oink, oink there
Here an oink, there an oink
Everywhere an oink, oink
A woof, woof here and a woof, woof there
Here a woof, there a woof
Everywhere a woof, woof
A moo, moo here and a moo, moo there
Here a moo, there a moo
Everywhere a moo, moo
A quack, quack here and a quack, quack there
Here a quack, there a quack
Everywhere a quack, quack
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_mol6B9z00&feature=related
And on that farm he had a duck, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
With a quack, quack here and a quack, quack there
Here a quack, there a quack
Everywhere a quack, quack
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
And on that farm he had a cow, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
With a moo, moo here and a moo, moo there
Here a moo, there a moo
Everywhere a moo, moo
A quack, quack here and a quack, quack there
Here a quack, there a quack
Everywhere a quack, quack
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
And on that farm he had a dog, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
With a woof, woof here and a woof, woof there
Here a woof, there a woof
Everywhere a woof, woof
A moo, moo here and a moo, moo there
Here a moo, there a moo
Everywhere a moo, moo
A quack, quack here and a quack, quack there
Here a quack, there a quack
Everywhere a quack, quack
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
And on that farm he had a pig, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
With an oink, oink here and an oink, oink there
Here an oink, there an oink
Everywhere an oink, oink
A woof, woof here and a woof, woof there
Here a woof, there a woof
Everywhere a woof, woof
A moo, moo here and a moo, moo there
Here a moo, there a moo
Everywhere a moo, moo
A quack, quack here and a quack, quack there
Here a quack, there a quack
Everywhere a quack, quack
Old MacDonald had a farm, ee-eye, ee-eye oh
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_mol6B9z00&feature=related
If You're Happy and You Know it
If you're happy and you know it, clap your hands
If you're happy and you know it, clap your hands
If you're happy and you know it, then you really ought to show it
If you're happy and you know it, clap your hands
If you're happy and you know it, stamp your feet
If you're happy and you know it, stamp your feet
If you're happy and you know it, then you really ought to show it
If you're happy and you know it, stamp your feet
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrsM9WggCdo&NR=1
If you're happy and you know it, clap your hands
If you're happy and you know it, then you really ought to show it
If you're happy and you know it, clap your hands
If you're happy and you know it, stamp your feet
If you're happy and you know it, stamp your feet
If you're happy and you know it, then you really ought to show it
If you're happy and you know it, stamp your feet
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrsM9WggCdo&NR=1
Hello Song
To the tune of "London Bridge"
(wave)
Hi, hello and how are you?
How are you? How are you?
Hi Hello and how are you?
How are you today?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJCPt2eEuLc&feature=related
(wave)
Hi, hello and how are you?
How are you? How are you?
Hi Hello and how are you?
How are you today?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJCPt2eEuLc&feature=related
Chinese Style Steamed Fish on Vegetables
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 10 mins
Serves : 4
Ingredients :
1 carrot, cut into 5cm (2 inch) matchstick strips
1/2 celery stalk, cut into 5cm (2 inch) matchstick strips
2 small spring onions (scallions), cut into 5 cm (2 inch) matchstick strips
4 mushrooms, cut into matchstick strips
4 boneless white fish fillets (about 400g) skin on
2 teaspoons salt-reduced soy sauce
2 teaspoon vegetable oil
Method:
Put the vegetable strips on a dish that will fit in a steamer.
Arrange the fish, skin side up, on the vegetables.
Combine the soy sauce and vegetable oil together, then pour over the fish.
Place the dish in a steam, cover and steam over simmering water for about 10 mins or until the fish flakes when tested with a fork.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food, Murdoch Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 10 mins
Serves : 4
Ingredients :
1 carrot, cut into 5cm (2 inch) matchstick strips
1/2 celery stalk, cut into 5cm (2 inch) matchstick strips
2 small spring onions (scallions), cut into 5 cm (2 inch) matchstick strips
4 mushrooms, cut into matchstick strips
4 boneless white fish fillets (about 400g) skin on
2 teaspoons salt-reduced soy sauce
2 teaspoon vegetable oil
Method:
Put the vegetable strips on a dish that will fit in a steamer.
Arrange the fish, skin side up, on the vegetables.
Combine the soy sauce and vegetable oil together, then pour over the fish.
Place the dish in a steam, cover and steam over simmering water for about 10 mins or until the fish flakes when tested with a fork.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food, Murdoch Books Pty Ltd
Quick Pasta with Tomato Sauce
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : 10 mins
Serves : 4
Ingredients :
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 garlic clove, crushed
400g tinned diced Roma tomatoes
250g penne or farfalle (bow tie pasta)
1 tablespoon shaved parmesan cheese (optional)
Method:
Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Cook the garlic, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.
Add the tomatoes and stir through.
Reduce the heat to low and cook for a further 8-10 mins, stirring occasionally or until reduced.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large saucepan of salted boiling water until al dente.
Drain and return to the saucepan.
Add the cooked tomatoes to the pasta and stir them through.
Spoon a small portion into a bowl and sprinkle with parmesan cheese, if desired.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food, Murdoch Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 10 mins
Serves : 4
Ingredients :
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 garlic clove, crushed
400g tinned diced Roma tomatoes
250g penne or farfalle (bow tie pasta)
1 tablespoon shaved parmesan cheese (optional)
Method:
Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Cook the garlic, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.
Add the tomatoes and stir through.
Reduce the heat to low and cook for a further 8-10 mins, stirring occasionally or until reduced.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large saucepan of salted boiling water until al dente.
Drain and return to the saucepan.
Add the cooked tomatoes to the pasta and stir them through.
Spoon a small portion into a bowl and sprinkle with parmesan cheese, if desired.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food, Murdoch Books Pty Ltd
Tomato Soup
Soup is a great way to get vegetables into toddlers. Make sure it is cool enough to eat and then let them dunk toast fingers for a nourishing 'hand on' meal.
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 20 mins
Serves : 4
Ingredients :
20g unsalted butter
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed
700g tomato-based pasta sauce
750ml salt-reduced chicken or vegetable stock
1 teaspoon sugar
1 parsley sprig
1 bay leaf
250ml milk
2 teaspoons chopped parsley
toast, to serve
Method:
Melt the butter in a saucepan and saute the celery, onion and carrot for 3-4 mins.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add the pasta sauce, chicken or vegetable stock, sugar, parsley sprig and bay leaf
Bring to the boil, then simmer for 10 mins.
Remove the parsley and bay leaf.
Puree the soup in a blender, then return it to the pan.
Stir through the milk and heat until hot.
Garnish with the parsley and serve with toast.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food, Murdoch Books Pty Ltd
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 20 mins
Serves : 4
Ingredients :
20g unsalted butter
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed
700g tomato-based pasta sauce
750ml salt-reduced chicken or vegetable stock
1 teaspoon sugar
1 parsley sprig
1 bay leaf
250ml milk
2 teaspoons chopped parsley
toast, to serve
Method:
Melt the butter in a saucepan and saute the celery, onion and carrot for 3-4 mins.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add the pasta sauce, chicken or vegetable stock, sugar, parsley sprig and bay leaf
Bring to the boil, then simmer for 10 mins.
Remove the parsley and bay leaf.
Puree the soup in a blender, then return it to the pan.
Stir through the milk and heat until hot.
Garnish with the parsley and serve with toast.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food, Murdoch Books Pty Ltd
Banana Porridge
A wholegrain cereal like oats is rich in energy-giving carbohydrates, essential fats and minerals. Team it with banana and it becomes a great source of B vitamins including folate, as well as vitamin C and potassium.
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : 2 mins
Serves : 1
Ingredients :
1 tablespoon quick-cook oats
1 tablespoon cold water
1.5 tablespoon hot water
2 teaspoons mashed banana
milk or cooled boiled water
Method :
Combine the quick-cook oats with the cool water in a small saucepan.
Add the hot water and bring to the boil, stirring.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 30 seconds or until the mixture is thick and creamy.
Remove the porridge from the heat and stir through the mashed banana.
Mix with enough milk or cooled boiled water to produce the required consistency.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food, Murdoch Books Pty Ltd
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : 2 mins
Serves : 1
Ingredients :
1 tablespoon quick-cook oats
1 tablespoon cold water
1.5 tablespoon hot water
2 teaspoons mashed banana
milk or cooled boiled water
Method :
Combine the quick-cook oats with the cool water in a small saucepan.
Add the hot water and bring to the boil, stirring.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 30 seconds or until the mixture is thick and creamy.
Remove the porridge from the heat and stir through the mashed banana.
Mix with enough milk or cooled boiled water to produce the required consistency.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food, Murdoch Books Pty Ltd
Fluffy Omelette
The ultimate in convenience food, eggs make a perfect meal at any time of the day for a growing toddler.
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : 5 mins
Serves : 1
Ingredients :
1 egg yolk2 egg whites
1 teaspoon unsalted butter
Method :
Lightly beat the egg yolk with 1 teaspoon water.
Beat the egg whites to soft peaks and stir in the yolk mixture.
Melt the butter in a small frying pan and pour in the egg mixture.
Cook quickly on one side, then turn and cook until just firm.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K. (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : 5 mins
Serves : 1
Ingredients :
1 egg yolk2 egg whites
1 teaspoon unsalted butter
Method :
Lightly beat the egg yolk with 1 teaspoon water.
Beat the egg whites to soft peaks and stir in the yolk mixture.
Melt the butter in a small frying pan and pour in the egg mixture.
Cook quickly on one side, then turn and cook until just firm.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K. (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Chicken Meatballs in Soup
Prep time : 20 mins
Cooking time : 20 mins
Serves : 4
Ingredients :
1 spring onion (scallion)
375g minced (ground) chicken
875ml salt-reduced chicken stock
1.5 tablespoon frozen peas
1.5 tablespoon finely diced carrot
1 tablespoon alphabet noodles or other small pasta
Method:
Finely chop half the spring onion and thinly slice the remainder.
Combine the chicken and finely chopped spring onion until thoroughly mixed, then form into small balls, about the size of walnuts.
Bring the chicken stock to the boil in a saucepan and add the peas, carrot and noodles.
Simmer until the vegetables are tender, then add the reserved sliced spring onion.
Drop the chicken balls into the simmering soup.
Cook until the meatballs float to the surface and turn white.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K. (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 20 mins
Serves : 4
Ingredients :
1 spring onion (scallion)
375g minced (ground) chicken
875ml salt-reduced chicken stock
1.5 tablespoon frozen peas
1.5 tablespoon finely diced carrot
1 tablespoon alphabet noodles or other small pasta
Method:
Finely chop half the spring onion and thinly slice the remainder.
Combine the chicken and finely chopped spring onion until thoroughly mixed, then form into small balls, about the size of walnuts.
Bring the chicken stock to the boil in a saucepan and add the peas, carrot and noodles.
Simmer until the vegetables are tender, then add the reserved sliced spring onion.
Drop the chicken balls into the simmering soup.
Cook until the meatballs float to the surface and turn white.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K. (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
23 April 2009
Settling Techniques (For Newborn to 6 Months)
Babies are all very different.
The following Settling Techniques are a guide only.
Babies need to learn how to put themselves to sleep. Like most skills, it takes time and occurs at an individual rate. In the early months of life a baby has a need to be physically connected to their mother and other other significant family members. If this closeness is provided the baby learns to separate more easily from their parents as they can trust that in times of need the parent or other significant adult will come to their assistance.
Newborn babies' pattern are often unpredictable with irregular feeding and sleeping times, and generally babies do not establish a regular pattern till after 3 months of age. When assisting your baby develop a sleep pattern it is better to use levels of distress/cry as your guide to the need to comfort your child than adhering to a time schedule.
In the early weeks of life a baby will often fall asleep while being fed but then wake as soon as it is away from their parent's body.
A normal sleep cycle is approximately 40-60 mins and some babies will stir and re-settle themselves. However, some babies may need help to re-settle. When babies are overtired they may be more difficult to settle. An important starting point is to be able to recognise your baby's tired signs.
Tired signs may include :
* Grimacing
* Yawning
* Frowning
* Crying
* Sucking
* Clenched fists
* Staring
* Rigid limbs
* Squirming
* Jerky movements or becoming more active
* Minimal movements or activity
When you observe baby's tired signs, prepare your baby for bed:
Check your baby's nappy
Take care not to overheat
Position your baby in bed - on their back - according to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) guideline
0-3 Months :
If quiet, allow to settle. If crying introduce gentle stroking/cuddles until your baby calms
Swaddling your baby in a light muslin or cotton wrap may help and assist your baby to settle or to re-settle
Talking/singing but without eye contact can be reassuring for both you and baby
Most babies will take a while to settle
You may need to leave your baby for a brief time to see if he or she will settle on their own
If your baby is crying go in and comfort them
Often, you will have to do this several times
If your baby wakes under one hour attempt to re-settle them.
3-6 Months:
Self-settling involves comforting your baby in the cot or up-in-arm for short periods while also giving your baby the opportunity to fall asleep by himself/herself.
Your baby may initially protest and fuss when you leave the room. If you feel comfortable and your baby is not distressed. allow him/her the opportunity to settle himself/herself.
Listen to your baby's cry and respond accordingly. If your baby continues to fuss, return and comfort until your baby calms, before leaving the room.
For all babies
If you wish to safely maintain physical closeness with your child while they are asleep put their cot in your room.
If your baby continues to remain unsettled - consider other management techniques. For example: offer a "top-up" breastfeed within 30 mins of completing the feed; cuddle; rhythmical movement (walk or rock); baby massage; deep relaxation bathing; play some music; offer a dummy; or cooled boiled water. Choose whichever technique suits you and your baby best.
With consistency these routines may take up to 2 weeks to show progress. Times given are a guide only. For safety ensure the cot sides are completely raised whenever the baby is left unattended in the cot.
Source : Tresillian NSW
The following Settling Techniques are a guide only.
Babies need to learn how to put themselves to sleep. Like most skills, it takes time and occurs at an individual rate. In the early months of life a baby has a need to be physically connected to their mother and other other significant family members. If this closeness is provided the baby learns to separate more easily from their parents as they can trust that in times of need the parent or other significant adult will come to their assistance.
Newborn babies' pattern are often unpredictable with irregular feeding and sleeping times, and generally babies do not establish a regular pattern till after 3 months of age. When assisting your baby develop a sleep pattern it is better to use levels of distress/cry as your guide to the need to comfort your child than adhering to a time schedule.
In the early weeks of life a baby will often fall asleep while being fed but then wake as soon as it is away from their parent's body.
A normal sleep cycle is approximately 40-60 mins and some babies will stir and re-settle themselves. However, some babies may need help to re-settle. When babies are overtired they may be more difficult to settle. An important starting point is to be able to recognise your baby's tired signs.
Tired signs may include :
* Grimacing
* Yawning
* Frowning
* Crying
* Sucking
* Clenched fists
* Staring
* Rigid limbs
* Squirming
* Jerky movements or becoming more active
* Minimal movements or activity
When you observe baby's tired signs, prepare your baby for bed:
Check your baby's nappy
Take care not to overheat
Position your baby in bed - on their back - according to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) guideline
0-3 Months :
If quiet, allow to settle. If crying introduce gentle stroking/cuddles until your baby calms
Swaddling your baby in a light muslin or cotton wrap may help and assist your baby to settle or to re-settle
Talking/singing but without eye contact can be reassuring for both you and baby
Most babies will take a while to settle
You may need to leave your baby for a brief time to see if he or she will settle on their own
If your baby is crying go in and comfort them
Often, you will have to do this several times
If your baby wakes under one hour attempt to re-settle them.
3-6 Months:
Self-settling involves comforting your baby in the cot or up-in-arm for short periods while also giving your baby the opportunity to fall asleep by himself/herself.
Your baby may initially protest and fuss when you leave the room. If you feel comfortable and your baby is not distressed. allow him/her the opportunity to settle himself/herself.
Listen to your baby's cry and respond accordingly. If your baby continues to fuss, return and comfort until your baby calms, before leaving the room.
For all babies
If you wish to safely maintain physical closeness with your child while they are asleep put their cot in your room.
If your baby continues to remain unsettled - consider other management techniques. For example: offer a "top-up" breastfeed within 30 mins of completing the feed; cuddle; rhythmical movement (walk or rock); baby massage; deep relaxation bathing; play some music; offer a dummy; or cooled boiled water. Choose whichever technique suits you and your baby best.
With consistency these routines may take up to 2 weeks to show progress. Times given are a guide only. For safety ensure the cot sides are completely raised whenever the baby is left unattended in the cot.
Source : Tresillian NSW
Vegetable Risotto
Ingredients :
15ml tablespoon olive oil or other vegetable oil
55g rice
4 mushrooms, sliced
1 small courgette, sliced
1 carrot, sliced
1 stick celery, chopped
small handful of green beans
250ml vegetable stock or water
15ml/1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Method:
Heat the oil in a pan.
Stir in the rice and vegetables and cook over a low heat for a couple of mins.
Pour in half the stock/water and simmer until it is absorbed.
Add the remaining liquid in stages until the stock is absorbed.
The whole cooking time will be about 25 mins.
Stir in the parsley.
Transfer to a processor/mouli and blend to the desired consistency or serve as it is for older babies.
Cool quickly and portion for freezing.
Stir in Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Source : Marshall, J (1997), The ABC of Healthy Eating for Babies & Toddlers : a busy parent's guide, Hodder Headline PLC London
15ml tablespoon olive oil or other vegetable oil
55g rice
4 mushrooms, sliced
1 small courgette, sliced
1 carrot, sliced
1 stick celery, chopped
small handful of green beans
250ml vegetable stock or water
15ml/1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Method:
Heat the oil in a pan.
Stir in the rice and vegetables and cook over a low heat for a couple of mins.
Pour in half the stock/water and simmer until it is absorbed.
Add the remaining liquid in stages until the stock is absorbed.
The whole cooking time will be about 25 mins.
Stir in the parsley.
Transfer to a processor/mouli and blend to the desired consistency or serve as it is for older babies.
Cool quickly and portion for freezing.
Stir in Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Source : Marshall, J (1997), The ABC of Healthy Eating for Babies & Toddlers : a busy parent's guide, Hodder Headline PLC London
Mashed Potato with Carrot and Cheese
Ingredients :
1 small potato
20ml milk
20ml natural yogurt / soft white cheese
10g carrot, finely grated
Method:
Either boil some peeled potatoes and cook in the usual way, or bake jacket potatoes and remove the flesh.
Mash the flesh with a little milk, some natural yogurt or soft white cheese to moisten.
If you use milk, add a little finely grated cheese while the potato is warm so that it melts into the flesh, then stir in a very finely grated carrot.
Source: Marshall, J (1997), The ABC of Healthy Eating for Babies & Toddlers - A busy parent's guide, Hodder Headline PLC London
1 small potato
20ml milk
20ml natural yogurt / soft white cheese
10g carrot, finely grated
Method:
Either boil some peeled potatoes and cook in the usual way, or bake jacket potatoes and remove the flesh.
Mash the flesh with a little milk, some natural yogurt or soft white cheese to moisten.
If you use milk, add a little finely grated cheese while the potato is warm so that it melts into the flesh, then stir in a very finely grated carrot.
Source: Marshall, J (1997), The ABC of Healthy Eating for Babies & Toddlers - A busy parent's guide, Hodder Headline PLC London
Pasta with Tuna and Vegetable Sauce
Ingredients :
1/2 red pepper, deseeded and chopped
15ml/1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 carrot, sliced
115g French or string or runner beans, sliced
2 large tomatoes, skinned, and deseeded and chopped
1 courgette, sliced
55g wholemeal pasta
115g tuna canned in water
Method:
Put the pepper half under a hot grill, skin side uppermost.
When the skin is black and charred allow it to cool, then remove the skin and slice the pepper beneath.
Heat the oil in a pan and add the vegetables.
COver the pan and sweat over a low to medium heat for 10 mins, stirring occassionally to prevent sticking.
Add about 300ml water or no-added salt vegetable stock.
Add the pasta and cook for a further 15 mins until the pasta is cooked.
Transfer to a food processor/liquidiser/mouli.
Drain the tuna and add.
Blend to the desired consistency or chop for older babies.
Cool quickly and portion for freezing.
source : Marshall, J (1997) The ABC of Healthy Eating for Babies & Toddlers - A busy parent's guide, Hodder Headline PLC London
1/2 red pepper, deseeded and chopped
15ml/1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 carrot, sliced
115g French or string or runner beans, sliced
2 large tomatoes, skinned, and deseeded and chopped
1 courgette, sliced
55g wholemeal pasta
115g tuna canned in water
Method:
Put the pepper half under a hot grill, skin side uppermost.
When the skin is black and charred allow it to cool, then remove the skin and slice the pepper beneath.
Heat the oil in a pan and add the vegetables.
COver the pan and sweat over a low to medium heat for 10 mins, stirring occassionally to prevent sticking.
Add about 300ml water or no-added salt vegetable stock.
Add the pasta and cook for a further 15 mins until the pasta is cooked.
Transfer to a food processor/liquidiser/mouli.
Drain the tuna and add.
Blend to the desired consistency or chop for older babies.
Cool quickly and portion for freezing.
source : Marshall, J (1997) The ABC of Healthy Eating for Babies & Toddlers - A busy parent's guide, Hodder Headline PLC London
22 April 2009
Love, Talk, Sing, Read, Play (6-12 Months)
What is my baby learning to do ?
Sit without support
Crawl on hands and knees and pull to stand
Take steps holding onto furniture and walk with one hand held
Pick up and throw small objects
Hold a spoon or cup and attempt to self feed or drink
Be scared of strangers or objects
Look for objects that have fallen and find a hidden object
Repeat sounds and gestures
Respond to own name being called
Say words like "dada" or "mama"
Wave goodbye
How can I make the most of this time ?
Love
Your child may change from being friendly with everyone to wanting to cling to you and being scared of strangers.
This is normal. Stay calm; provide comfort and reassurance for your child. If you are leaving your baby for a while, say goodbye and let him/her know that you will be back.
Your child may also start to play briefly on his/her own, but he/she still needs you close by.
Face your child so that he/she can watch your expressions to learn about them.
Talk, Sing, Read
Use meal times for the family to talk. Encourage your child to hold food, cups, spoons, etc.
Name things as you use them and tell your children what is going on, such as, "You're eating yummy rice!" Give him/her time to respond.
When your baby makes a sound, imitate it and continue with this back and forth, like a conversation.
Night time routines can include looking at books together. You can point to pictures in board books and name the things you see.
You can show your baby small plastic photo albums of family and friends and help your baby to touch the pictures.
Sing, play songs and nursery rhymes throughout the day.
Play
Play games that have songs and actions together or involve turn taking. Play games like "peek-a-boo", clapping hands or dropping toys into a bucket. Hide toys under a bowl and let your baby find them.
He/She will also start to use toys in more complex ways, such as pouring water with a cup or throwing food on the floor (he/she is learning new important skills, not trying to be naughty).
Provide safe toys for bath time play - containers, rubber toys, plastic books.
Your baby is developing his/her motor skills, such as getting a ball that rolled away.
You can find out about joining a playgroup, a library and toy library near you.
Seek further advice if your baby :
Isn't responsive to carers
Isn't babbling and making different sounds
Isn't beginning to sit, crawl or pull to stand
Isn't playing with feet or swapping objects between hands
Isn't interested in holding toys
Isn't learning to eat solid.
Source : Blackmore, R & Garlick, L (2009) Love, Talk, Sing, Read, Play, Families NSW
Sit without support
Crawl on hands and knees and pull to stand
Take steps holding onto furniture and walk with one hand held
Pick up and throw small objects
Hold a spoon or cup and attempt to self feed or drink
Be scared of strangers or objects
Look for objects that have fallen and find a hidden object
Repeat sounds and gestures
Respond to own name being called
Say words like "dada" or "mama"
Wave goodbye
How can I make the most of this time ?
Love
Your child may change from being friendly with everyone to wanting to cling to you and being scared of strangers.
This is normal. Stay calm; provide comfort and reassurance for your child. If you are leaving your baby for a while, say goodbye and let him/her know that you will be back.
Your child may also start to play briefly on his/her own, but he/she still needs you close by.
Face your child so that he/she can watch your expressions to learn about them.
Talk, Sing, Read
Use meal times for the family to talk. Encourage your child to hold food, cups, spoons, etc.
Name things as you use them and tell your children what is going on, such as, "You're eating yummy rice!" Give him/her time to respond.
When your baby makes a sound, imitate it and continue with this back and forth, like a conversation.
Night time routines can include looking at books together. You can point to pictures in board books and name the things you see.
You can show your baby small plastic photo albums of family and friends and help your baby to touch the pictures.
Sing, play songs and nursery rhymes throughout the day.
Play
Play games that have songs and actions together or involve turn taking. Play games like "peek-a-boo", clapping hands or dropping toys into a bucket. Hide toys under a bowl and let your baby find them.
He/She will also start to use toys in more complex ways, such as pouring water with a cup or throwing food on the floor (he/she is learning new important skills, not trying to be naughty).
Provide safe toys for bath time play - containers, rubber toys, plastic books.
Your baby is developing his/her motor skills, such as getting a ball that rolled away.
You can find out about joining a playgroup, a library and toy library near you.
Seek further advice if your baby :
Isn't responsive to carers
Isn't babbling and making different sounds
Isn't beginning to sit, crawl or pull to stand
Isn't playing with feet or swapping objects between hands
Isn't interested in holding toys
Isn't learning to eat solid.
Source : Blackmore, R & Garlick, L (2009) Love, Talk, Sing, Read, Play, Families NSW
Love, Talk, Sing, Read, Play (2-6 Months)
What is my baby learning to do?
Sleep less
Interact more
Sit with support
Raise head and chest when lying on stomach
Roll both ways from stomach to back
Reach for dangling objects
Grasp and shake objects
Respond to their name
Be happy to see faces they know
Copy Sound
Learn social skills
How can I make the most of this time?
Love
Babies thrive best when those around them are happy and calm
Value yourself and what you can do. Ask for help from family, friends and services when needed.
Show your baby you love him / her with smiles, kisses, hugs and let him/her touch your face.
Talk, Sing, Read
Tell your baby about what you are planning to do, such as "I'm going to pick you up." This helps him/her feel comfortable with what is happening.
When your baby babbles, talk and babble back.
Your baby will copy you sticking out your tongue. You can copy things your baby does too.
Involve your family in talking with the baby.
Read to your baby each night while holding him/her in your lap. He or she will learn that reading is 'feeling good' time.
Play
Babies learn from watching others, holding and putting their mouths on different things. Offer your baby new objects. Don't let them have anything that could fit entirely in their mouth. Let your baby play with your fingers and explore the breast or bottle during feeds.
Offer your baby one toy at a time so he/she can focus on and explore each one. Good choices include a small rattle with a handle, a rubber ring, a soft doll and a board book with pictures. Hold out a toy, encourage your baby to reach and grab it, then signal to give it back. You will start to see what interests him/her most.
Give your baby time to copy you, for example, push a button on a toy and wait for your baby to do it before you do it again. This teaches him/her that he/she can make things happen and this builds confidence.
Place your baby in different positions on the floor so that he/she can look at many things and explore in different ways.
Seek further advice if your baby :
Isn't learning to make sounds
Isn't responding to familiar faces
Isn't learning to roll when playing on floor
Source : Blackmore, R & Garlick, L (2009) Love, Talk, Sing, Read, Play, Families NSW
Sleep less
Interact more
Sit with support
Raise head and chest when lying on stomach
Roll both ways from stomach to back
Reach for dangling objects
Grasp and shake objects
Respond to their name
Be happy to see faces they know
Copy Sound
Learn social skills
How can I make the most of this time?
Love
Babies thrive best when those around them are happy and calm
Value yourself and what you can do. Ask for help from family, friends and services when needed.
Show your baby you love him / her with smiles, kisses, hugs and let him/her touch your face.
Talk, Sing, Read
Tell your baby about what you are planning to do, such as "I'm going to pick you up." This helps him/her feel comfortable with what is happening.
When your baby babbles, talk and babble back.
Your baby will copy you sticking out your tongue. You can copy things your baby does too.
Involve your family in talking with the baby.
Read to your baby each night while holding him/her in your lap. He or she will learn that reading is 'feeling good' time.
Play
Babies learn from watching others, holding and putting their mouths on different things. Offer your baby new objects. Don't let them have anything that could fit entirely in their mouth. Let your baby play with your fingers and explore the breast or bottle during feeds.
Offer your baby one toy at a time so he/she can focus on and explore each one. Good choices include a small rattle with a handle, a rubber ring, a soft doll and a board book with pictures. Hold out a toy, encourage your baby to reach and grab it, then signal to give it back. You will start to see what interests him/her most.
Give your baby time to copy you, for example, push a button on a toy and wait for your baby to do it before you do it again. This teaches him/her that he/she can make things happen and this builds confidence.
Place your baby in different positions on the floor so that he/she can look at many things and explore in different ways.
Seek further advice if your baby :
Isn't learning to make sounds
Isn't responding to familiar faces
Isn't learning to roll when playing on floor
Source : Blackmore, R & Garlick, L (2009) Love, Talk, Sing, Read, Play, Families NSW
Love, Talk, Sing, Read, Play (0-2 Months)
What is my baby learning to do:
smile and laugh
listen to voices
Kick legs
Eating and sleeping patterns
Love
Cuddle and kiss your baby. Babies love to be held. You can't spoil your baby by giving too much attention.
Babies cry because they need something. They may be hungry, tired, scared, sick, need to be held or need a nappy change. If you comfort them when they cry, they will learn that the world is safe and cry less. Spend time getting to know what your baby's different cries mean.
Look at your baby's face while they look at you as this helps bonding and helps brain development.
Try to develop routines for baths and sleep about the same time every day.
Talk, Sing, Read
Babies are learning from the moment they are born. Most brain development happens in your baby's first three years.
Respond to your baby's sounds. Smile and talk back. Babies would rather listen to your voice than anything else.
Sing or say the same rhyme each bedtime. Lullabies can help soothe and help him / her sleep.
Play
From birth, children are keen to learn about their world by playing.
Hold your baby's hand and let him/her grip your finger.
Softly stroke your baby and gently move his/her arms and legs up and down when he/she is happy on his / her back.
Seek further advice if your baby :
Seems floppy or stiff
Cries a lot
Arches his/her back a lot
Isn't responding to sounds
Isn't showing interest or listening when played with
Isn't feeding as expected
Source : Blackmore, R & Garlick, L (2009), Love, Talk, Sing, Read, Play, Familes NSW
smile and laugh
listen to voices
Kick legs
Eating and sleeping patterns
Love
Cuddle and kiss your baby. Babies love to be held. You can't spoil your baby by giving too much attention.
Babies cry because they need something. They may be hungry, tired, scared, sick, need to be held or need a nappy change. If you comfort them when they cry, they will learn that the world is safe and cry less. Spend time getting to know what your baby's different cries mean.
Look at your baby's face while they look at you as this helps bonding and helps brain development.
Try to develop routines for baths and sleep about the same time every day.
Talk, Sing, Read
Babies are learning from the moment they are born. Most brain development happens in your baby's first three years.
Respond to your baby's sounds. Smile and talk back. Babies would rather listen to your voice than anything else.
Sing or say the same rhyme each bedtime. Lullabies can help soothe and help him / her sleep.
Play
From birth, children are keen to learn about their world by playing.
Hold your baby's hand and let him/her grip your finger.
Softly stroke your baby and gently move his/her arms and legs up and down when he/she is happy on his / her back.
Seek further advice if your baby :
Seems floppy or stiff
Cries a lot
Arches his/her back a lot
Isn't responding to sounds
Isn't showing interest or listening when played with
Isn't feeding as expected
Source : Blackmore, R & Garlick, L (2009), Love, Talk, Sing, Read, Play, Familes NSW
Yoghurt Jelly
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 5 mins
Makes : 6 serves
Ingredients :
1.5 tablespoon gelatine powder
375ml unsweetened fruit juice
250g plain yogurt
Method :
Sprinkle the gelatine over 125ml cool water in a small saucepan.
Heat through, then add the fruit juice and heat through again.
Pour into a mixing bowl and leave until it begins to thicken.
Stir in the yoghurt, then beat with electric beaters until fluffy.
Transfer to small dishes and refrigerate until set.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K. (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 5 mins
Makes : 6 serves
Ingredients :
1.5 tablespoon gelatine powder
375ml unsweetened fruit juice
250g plain yogurt
Method :
Sprinkle the gelatine over 125ml cool water in a small saucepan.
Heat through, then add the fruit juice and heat through again.
Pour into a mixing bowl and leave until it begins to thicken.
Stir in the yoghurt, then beat with electric beaters until fluffy.
Transfer to small dishes and refrigerate until set.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K. (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Fruit Jelly
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 5 mins
Makes : 6 serves
Ingredients :
1 tablespoon gelatine powder
375ml unsweetened fruit juice
200g pureed fresh or drained, tinned fruit in natural juice
Method :
Sprinkle the gelatine over 125ml cool water in a small saucepan
Heat through, then add the fruit juice and heat through again
Pour into a mixing bowl and leave until it begins to thicken.
Stir in the pureed fruit until well combined.
Transfer to small dished and refrigerate until set.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 5 mins
Makes : 6 serves
Ingredients :
1 tablespoon gelatine powder
375ml unsweetened fruit juice
200g pureed fresh or drained, tinned fruit in natural juice
Method :
Sprinkle the gelatine over 125ml cool water in a small saucepan
Heat through, then add the fruit juice and heat through again
Pour into a mixing bowl and leave until it begins to thicken.
Stir in the pureed fruit until well combined.
Transfer to small dished and refrigerate until set.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Fresh Fruit Salad
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : NIL
Makes : 2-3 serves
Ingredients :
100g seedless watermelon, cut into 2cm cubes
100g orange fleshed melon, cut into 2cm cubes
60g strawberries, hulled and cut into quarters
1/2 kiwi fruit, peeled and cut into pieces
50g seedless white grapes, halved
1/4 banana, sliced
1-2 tablespoons unsweetened fruit juice or orange juice
Method :
Place the fruits in a bowl, pour over the orange juice and toss to coat.
Serve as finger food or cut up into smaller pieces for spoon feeding.
Hint : Avoid fruits with seeds, though, unless you can remove them first
Choose seasonal fruits
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : NIL
Makes : 2-3 serves
Ingredients :
100g seedless watermelon, cut into 2cm cubes
100g orange fleshed melon, cut into 2cm cubes
60g strawberries, hulled and cut into quarters
1/2 kiwi fruit, peeled and cut into pieces
50g seedless white grapes, halved
1/4 banana, sliced
1-2 tablespoons unsweetened fruit juice or orange juice
Method :
Place the fruits in a bowl, pour over the orange juice and toss to coat.
Serve as finger food or cut up into smaller pieces for spoon feeding.
Hint : Avoid fruits with seeds, though, unless you can remove them first
Choose seasonal fruits
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Rice Pudding
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 1.5 hours
Makes : 4 serves
Ingredients :
110g risotto rice
1 litre milk (4 cups)
2 tablespoons caster (superfine) sugar
1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
1 teaspoon unsalted butter (optional)
pinch of cinnamon (optional)
fresh berries to garnish (optional)
Method :
Preheat the oven to 180'C (350'F)
Place the rice, milk, sugars, vanilla and butter and cinnamon, if using, in a baking dish and stir
Bake for about 1.5 hours., stirring every 15 mins to make sure it doesn't stick to the dish.
Remove the pudding from the oven when it has the consistency of creamed rice.
Do not overcook or it may dry out.
Cool slightly and top with fresh berries.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 1.5 hours
Makes : 4 serves
Ingredients :
110g risotto rice
1 litre milk (4 cups)
2 tablespoons caster (superfine) sugar
1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
1 teaspoon unsalted butter (optional)
pinch of cinnamon (optional)
fresh berries to garnish (optional)
Method :
Preheat the oven to 180'C (350'F)
Place the rice, milk, sugars, vanilla and butter and cinnamon, if using, in a baking dish and stir
Bake for about 1.5 hours., stirring every 15 mins to make sure it doesn't stick to the dish.
Remove the pudding from the oven when it has the consistency of creamed rice.
Do not overcook or it may dry out.
Cool slightly and top with fresh berries.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cauliflower in Creamy Sauce
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : 8 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients :
60g fresh cauliflower, cut into small florets
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon dry milk powder or ricotta cheese
3/4 teaspoon conflour (cornstarch)
Method :
Cut the cauliflower into small florets and boil or steam until tender.
Drain well
Put the milk, milk powder or ricotta cheese and cornflour in a small saucepan.
Cook, stirring until thickened.
Finely chop or mash the cauliflower and stir into the sauce.
Hint : This recipe can also be used for diced carrots, tiny florets of broccoli, diced asparagus or pumpkin.
Source : Fallow, c & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 8 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients :
60g fresh cauliflower, cut into small florets
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon dry milk powder or ricotta cheese
3/4 teaspoon conflour (cornstarch)
Method :
Cut the cauliflower into small florets and boil or steam until tender.
Drain well
Put the milk, milk powder or ricotta cheese and cornflour in a small saucepan.
Cook, stirring until thickened.
Finely chop or mash the cauliflower and stir into the sauce.
Hint : This recipe can also be used for diced carrots, tiny florets of broccoli, diced asparagus or pumpkin.
Source : Fallow, c & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Steamed Fish & Diced Vegetables
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 8 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients :
60g piece boneless white fish, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons finely diced vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, carrot, frozen peas)
milk (optional)
Method:
Put the fish with the vegetables in a steamer and set over a saucepan of boiling water.
Steam for about 8 mins, or unti tender
Mash the fish and vegetables together to form a smooth consistency, adding a little of the cooking liquid or milk if necessary.
Otherwise, flake the fish and chop the accompanying vegetables, adding a little milk or cooking liquid.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 8 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients :
60g piece boneless white fish, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons finely diced vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, carrot, frozen peas)
milk (optional)
Method:
Put the fish with the vegetables in a steamer and set over a saucepan of boiling water.
Steam for about 8 mins, or unti tender
Mash the fish and vegetables together to form a smooth consistency, adding a little of the cooking liquid or milk if necessary.
Otherwise, flake the fish and chop the accompanying vegetables, adding a little milk or cooking liquid.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cheesy Stars
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : 10 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients :
60g small, star-shaped pasta
1 teaspoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon grated cheese
1 tablespoon milk
chopped parsley
Method:
Cook the pasta in boiling water for about 8-9 mins or until tender.
Drain, return the pasta to the saucepan, then add the butter, cheese and milk
Mix well and stir over low heat for 1 min, or until the butter and cheese have melted
Stir in a little parsley. If necessary, mash to serve
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 10 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients :
60g small, star-shaped pasta
1 teaspoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon grated cheese
1 tablespoon milk
chopped parsley
Method:
Cook the pasta in boiling water for about 8-9 mins or until tender.
Drain, return the pasta to the saucepan, then add the butter, cheese and milk
Mix well and stir over low heat for 1 min, or until the butter and cheese have melted
Stir in a little parsley. If necessary, mash to serve
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Carrot & Pumpkin Risotto
Prep time : 15 mins
Cooking time : 35 mins
Makes : 4 serves
Ingredients :
90g unsalted butter
1 onion, finely chopped
250g pumpkin (winter squash), cut into small cubes
1.75-2 litres salt-reduced vegetable stock
440g risotto rice
90g freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Method:
Heat 60g of the butter in a large, heavy-based saucepan.
Add the onion and fry for 1-2 mins, or until soft.
Add the pumpkin and carrot and cook for 6-8 mins or until tender.
Mash slightly with a potato masher.
Put the stock in a separate saucepan and keep at simmering point.
Add the rice to the vegetables and cook for 1 min, stirring constantly.
Ladle in enough hot stock to cover the rice; stir well.
Reduce the heat and add more stock as it is absorbed, stirring frequently.
Continue until the rice is tender and creamy (this will take about 25 mins).
Remove the pan from the heat, add the remaining butter, cheese and nutmeg and season with freshly ground black pepper.
Fork through. Cover and leave for 5 mins before serving.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 35 mins
Makes : 4 serves
Ingredients :
90g unsalted butter
1 onion, finely chopped
250g pumpkin (winter squash), cut into small cubes
1.75-2 litres salt-reduced vegetable stock
440g risotto rice
90g freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Method:
Heat 60g of the butter in a large, heavy-based saucepan.
Add the onion and fry for 1-2 mins, or until soft.
Add the pumpkin and carrot and cook for 6-8 mins or until tender.
Mash slightly with a potato masher.
Put the stock in a separate saucepan and keep at simmering point.
Add the rice to the vegetables and cook for 1 min, stirring constantly.
Ladle in enough hot stock to cover the rice; stir well.
Reduce the heat and add more stock as it is absorbed, stirring frequently.
Continue until the rice is tender and creamy (this will take about 25 mins).
Remove the pan from the heat, add the remaining butter, cheese and nutmeg and season with freshly ground black pepper.
Fork through. Cover and leave for 5 mins before serving.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Simple Scrambled Eggs
Eggs are a good source of protein and fat plus valuable vitamins and minerals. In fact, they contain every nutrient except vitamin C, making them an important part of a growing baby's diet.
Prep time : 2 mins
Cooking time : 4 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients :
1 whole egg
1 egg york
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon unsalted butter
Method :
Lightly beat together the whole egg and egg yolk with the milk.
Melt the butter in a small non-stick frying pan over low heat and pour in the egg mixture.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the egg begins to set underneath.
This will take about 3-4 mins.
Stir lightly and cook until just set.
Serve the scrambled eggs with lightly toasted breast.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Prep time : 2 mins
Cooking time : 4 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients :
1 whole egg
1 egg york
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon unsalted butter
Method :
Lightly beat together the whole egg and egg yolk with the milk.
Melt the butter in a small non-stick frying pan over low heat and pour in the egg mixture.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the egg begins to set underneath.
This will take about 3-4 mins.
Stir lightly and cook until just set.
Serve the scrambled eggs with lightly toasted breast.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Pear & Sweet Potato Puree
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : 12 mins
Makes : 1-2 serves
Ingredients :
80g chopped sweet potato
80g peeled cored and chopped pear
breast milk, formula or cooked boiled water
Method :
Put the chopped sweet potato and pear pieces in a steamer basket over a saucepan of gently simmering water
Cover tightly and steam for about 12 mins or until very tender
Finely puree the pieces with a fork or press through a sieve
Add a little breast milk, formula or cooked boiled water to the mixture to achieve a smooth consistency
After feeding, spoon the (untouched) reminder into ice cube trays and freeze or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 12 mins
Makes : 1-2 serves
Ingredients :
80g chopped sweet potato
80g peeled cored and chopped pear
breast milk, formula or cooked boiled water
Method :
Put the chopped sweet potato and pear pieces in a steamer basket over a saucepan of gently simmering water
Cover tightly and steam for about 12 mins or until very tender
Finely puree the pieces with a fork or press through a sieve
Add a little breast milk, formula or cooked boiled water to the mixture to achieve a smooth consistency
After feeding, spoon the (untouched) reminder into ice cube trays and freeze or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Stewed Fruit
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : 5 mins
Makes : 6 - 8 serves
Ingredients :
1 medium apple, peach or pear, peeked, cored and sliced
Method:
Put the sliced fruit into a small saucepan with 2 tablespoons water
Bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer until soft and pulpy, adding more water as required
Puree with a little boiled water to make about 125 ml stewed fruit
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 5 mins
Makes : 6 - 8 serves
Ingredients :
1 medium apple, peach or pear, peeked, cored and sliced
Method:
Put the sliced fruit into a small saucepan with 2 tablespoons water
Bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer until soft and pulpy, adding more water as required
Puree with a little boiled water to make about 125 ml stewed fruit
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Pureed Vegetable
Try pumkin (winter squash) as a first vegetable for baby. Its smooth, creamy texture and naturally sweet flavour make it enjoyable for new palates.
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking Time : 15 mins
Makes : 6-8 serves
Ingredients:
80g chopped pumpkin
Method :
Put pumpkin into a steamer basket over a saucepan of gently simmering water
Cover tightly and steam until tender
Finely puree pumpkin pieces with a fork or press through a sieve.
Add a little breast milk, formula or cooked boiled water to the mixture to achieve a smooth consistency
After feeding spoon the (untouched) remainder into ice cube trays and freeze or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking Time : 15 mins
Makes : 6-8 serves
Ingredients:
80g chopped pumpkin
Method :
Put pumpkin into a steamer basket over a saucepan of gently simmering water
Cover tightly and steam until tender
Finely puree pumpkin pieces with a fork or press through a sieve.
Add a little breast milk, formula or cooked boiled water to the mixture to achieve a smooth consistency
After feeding spoon the (untouched) remainder into ice cube trays and freeze or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Poached Fish with Potato & Peas
White fish has a soft texture and mild flavour that baby should enjoy. Fish is rich in high-quality protein plus vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D and iodine, which are important for growth and development.
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 5 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients:
60g piece white fish
Milk
1 small new potato, cut into cubes
2 teaspoons frozen peas
Method:
Put the fish in a small saucepan and add enough milk to cover,
Simmer, covered for 3-5 mins or until tender
Meanwhile, add the potato and peas to boiling water and cook until tender
Drain
Mash the potato and peas, adding a little milk form the fish
Remove any bones from the fish, then flake and serve with the mashed vegetables or mix through the vegetables.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 5 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients:
60g piece white fish
Milk
1 small new potato, cut into cubes
2 teaspoons frozen peas
Method:
Put the fish in a small saucepan and add enough milk to cover,
Simmer, covered for 3-5 mins or until tender
Meanwhile, add the potato and peas to boiling water and cook until tender
Drain
Mash the potato and peas, adding a little milk form the fish
Remove any bones from the fish, then flake and serve with the mashed vegetables or mix through the vegetables.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Steamed Chicken & Apple
The mild flavour of chicken teams well with the sweetness of fruit. Using a fruit that baby is familiar with helps to introduce her to a new flavour.
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 5 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients :
1/2 red cooking apple, peeled and cored
2 boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
Method:
Thinly slice the apple and cut the chicken into small cubes.
Place the chicken tenderloin pieces in a steamer and arrange the apple slices over the chicken
Set over a saucepan of boiling water and steam for about 5 mins or until tender
Puree or finely chop the chicken and apple, together with a little of the cooking liquid
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 5 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients :
1/2 red cooking apple, peeled and cored
2 boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
Method:
Thinly slice the apple and cut the chicken into small cubes.
Place the chicken tenderloin pieces in a steamer and arrange the apple slices over the chicken
Set over a saucepan of boiling water and steam for about 5 mins or until tender
Puree or finely chop the chicken and apple, together with a little of the cooking liquid
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Homemade Rusks
Prep time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 1 hour
Makes about : 80
Ingredients :
1 loaf unsliced wholemeal (whole-wheat) bread
Method:
Preheat the oven to 130'C (250'F)
Cut the bread into 2.5cm (1 inch) thick slices
Remove the crusts and cut each slice into strips about 1.5cm (1/2 inch) wide
Bake the strips on an ungreased baking tray for about 1 hour or until the rusks are dry and crisp
Turn them occasionally
Cool and store in an airtight container for up to 7 days
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cooking time : 1 hour
Makes about : 80
Ingredients :
1 loaf unsliced wholemeal (whole-wheat) bread
Method:
Preheat the oven to 130'C (250'F)
Cut the bread into 2.5cm (1 inch) thick slices
Remove the crusts and cut each slice into strips about 1.5cm (1/2 inch) wide
Bake the strips on an ungreased baking tray for about 1 hour or until the rusks are dry and crisp
Turn them occasionally
Cool and store in an airtight container for up to 7 days
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Spinach & Potato Mash
Potatoes are not only rich in energy-giving carbohydrates but also in vitamin C.
Try using the creamy texture of potato mash in combination with other vegetables.
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : 10 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients:
1 potato, peeled
1 tablespoon finely chopped English spinach
milk or cooled boiled water
Method:
Cook the potato in boiling water for about 10 mins or until tender.
Put the chopped spinach into a small saucepan with 2 teaspoons water.
Cook over low heat for 2 mins or until the spinach is wilted.
Keep the saucepan tightly covered during cooking then drain to remove any excess liquid.
Mash the potato and stir in the English spinach, adding a little milk or cooked boiled water if necessary to give a smooth consistency.
Variations : peas or broccoli can be easily substituted for the spinach. Ensure that the peas are well blended as whole peas are a choking risk for very young children.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Try using the creamy texture of potato mash in combination with other vegetables.
Prep time : 5 mins
Cooking time : 10 mins
Makes : 1 serve
Ingredients:
1 potato, peeled
1 tablespoon finely chopped English spinach
milk or cooled boiled water
Method:
Cook the potato in boiling water for about 10 mins or until tender.
Put the chopped spinach into a small saucepan with 2 teaspoons water.
Cook over low heat for 2 mins or until the spinach is wilted.
Keep the saucepan tightly covered during cooking then drain to remove any excess liquid.
Mash the potato and stir in the English spinach, adding a little milk or cooked boiled water if necessary to give a smooth consistency.
Variations : peas or broccoli can be easily substituted for the spinach. Ensure that the peas are well blended as whole peas are a choking risk for very young children.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Cauliflower Soup
Cauliflower, along with broccoli, brussels sprouts and cabbage, belongs to the Brassica family of vegetables, which are all excellent sources of vitamin C.
Preparation time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 15 mins
Makes : 6-8 serves
Ingredients:
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 small garlic clove, crushed (optional)
300g cauliflower, cut into small florets
500m salt reduced vegetable or chicken stock
Method:
Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 mins or until softened.
Add the cauliflower and stock, cover and bring to the boil.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 mins.
Cool slightly and process in a blender or food processor until smooth.
The soup keeps for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or can be frozen in serving-size portions for up to 2 months.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
Preparation time : 10 mins
Cooking time : 15 mins
Makes : 6-8 serves
Ingredients:
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 small garlic clove, crushed (optional)
300g cauliflower, cut into small florets
500m salt reduced vegetable or chicken stock
Method:
Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 mins or until softened.
Add the cauliflower and stock, cover and bring to the boil.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 mins.
Cool slightly and process in a blender or food processor until smooth.
The soup keeps for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or can be frozen in serving-size portions for up to 2 months.
Source : Fallow, C & Kingham, K (2005) Baby & Toddler Food Book, Murdock Books Pty Ltd
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