You give grapes to a baby by quartering them to prevent choking.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Safety First: Whole grapes are a significant choking hazard for babies due to their size and smooth, round shape.
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Preparation is Key:
- Wash the Grapes: Thoroughly wash the grapes to remove any dirt or pesticides.
- Quarter the Grapes: Cut the grape lengthwise into quarters. This drastically reduces the risk of choking. Make sure they are small enough for the baby to manage. Some sources recommend even smaller pieces, especially for younger babies just starting solids.
- Remove Seeds (If Applicable): If the grapes have seeds, remove them.
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When to Introduce Grapes: Grapes are generally introduced when a baby is around 6-9 months old and has started eating solid foods. It's essential that the baby can sit upright and has good head control.
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How to Serve:
- Start Small: Introduce a small amount of quartered grapes to see how your baby tolerates them.
- Supervise Closely: Always supervise your baby while they are eating.
- Let Baby Self-Feed (If Appropriate): If your baby is practicing baby-led weaning, they can pick up the quartered pieces themselves. Otherwise, you can offer them the grape pieces.
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Alternative Fruits: If you are concerned about grapes, consider offering other fruits first, such as mashed bananas, cooked and pureed apples, or soft peaches.
