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Squash

Usually introduced around 6 months

3 key nutrients

Prep warning

Remove the hard skin, seeds, and any stringy bits before serving. Cook winter squash until very soft, so a piece mashes easily with gentle pressure.

How to serve by age

6-9 months

Prep

Peel and seed the squash, then steam, roast, or boil it until very soft and serve warm. Offer it as a finger-length spear the baby can hold with a bit sticking out of the fist, or mashed and smooth. Each piece should mash easily between two fingers.

Cut

Soft-cooked finger-length spears, or mashed smooth.

9-12 months

Prep

Keep cooking the squash soft, but it can be slightly firmer now. As the pincer grasp develops, offer bite-size soft cubes or small pieces the baby can pick up. Skin and seeds still come off before serving.

Cut

Bite-size soft cubes or small pieces.

12-18 months

Prep

Serve squash close to family texture, soft-cooked and cut into bite-size pieces. It works roasted, mashed, or stirred into pasta, rice, soups, and stews. Keep pieces small and soft.

Cut

Bite-size soft pieces.

Key nutrients

Vitamin AVitamin CFiber

Meal ideas with Squash

Browse all meal ideas

Common questions

When can my baby eat Squash?

Most babies can try Squash from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness. Check the prep and cut-size notes above before you start.

Is Squash a choking hazard for babies?

Squash is considered a lower choking-risk food when served in age-appropriate sizes and textures. Follow the cut sizes above and always stay close during meals.

Is Squash a common allergen?

Squash is not one of the major food allergens. Any new food can still cause a reaction, so keep an eye on your baby the first few times.

Sources3

General informational content, not medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician about introducing new foods, especially if your baby has any medical conditions or family history of allergies.

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