Has your baby been reaching for your morning toast? Is he gripping his spoon as if it were his most prized possession? Perhaps it is ime for finger foods! Most babies can begin finger foods between 7 and 9 months of age. Your baby will probably adore his Ritz crackers and cut up whole banana as he figures out how to put his hand to his mouth in one smooth motion, but care is needed when you give your baby finger foods.

First, you must determine if your child is really ready for such a change. Each baby will reach readiness at his own pace, so try not to rush him. If he seems content with his pureed foods, stick with this type of meal for a while. But if your child is trying to steal his brother's cookie, maybe you should evaluate other signs of readiness.

If you don't have to prop your baby with blankets or sit him on phone books to keep him from wobbling, he is probably working on his hand coordination now. Does he bring rattles and other items to his mouth frequently? Is he able to pinch things between his fingers? This is also a sign that his motor skills are advancing.

If your baby has been eating different pureed vegetables, meats, fruits and grains, his digestive system may be mature enough to handle foods that aren't the consistency of stiff liquid. More solid foods like bread, pieces of fruit, pasta, crackers and some cooked vegetables may be easy for him to swallow and digest.

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