Feeding Baby | Oatmeal

Oats are naturally high in fiber, protein, calcium, and antioxidants. Plus they are inexpensive and easy to prepare, making them an ideal baby food. 

Oats can be used as a simple first food when introducing solids, and can easily be adapted for any age.

There are a lot of different options when it comes to oatmeal. Pictured from left to right:

• finely ground oat powder
• rolled oats
• steel cut oats

For the littlest babies, start with a fine oatmeal powder. Simply put rolled or steel cut oats into your blender or food processor, and grind until you have a fine powder. To prepare, boil 1 cup of water in a small pot or saucepan. Add 1/4 cup of oat powder, and whisk for about 10 minutes, until oatmeal has thickened. Allow it to cool, then add breast milk or formula to thin oatmeal to desired consistency.

For older babies, cook rolled or steel cut oats according to the package instructions. Add breast milk or formula to thin oatmeal to desired consistency. Add fruit purées, as desired.

For toddlers, cook rolled or steel cut oats according to the package instructions, using whole milk in place of all or part of the water. Add fruit purées, or finely chopped fruit, as desired.

Try alternating between rolled oats and steel cut oats, to give baby a variety of textures. Try adding different fruits or fruit purées. Add cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, or any other spices you like. As with all baby food, the idea is to have fun and introduce baby to many different flavors and textures.

For more homemade baby food:
The Basics
Fruit Purées
Vegetable Purées