Apple and Spinach Pancakes

Cook apple until very soft, then mash or puree it smooth, or offer a soft-cooked finger-length wedge. Raw apple is hard and a top choking hazard, so always cook it soft or finely grate it; never serve raw chunks, slices, or sticks.

Cook spinach until soft and wilted, then chop it finely or puree it. It blends easily into other purees, mashed vegetables, yogurt, or well-cooked egg. Serve it folded into a carrier food rather than as loose leaves.

Hard-cook the egg until both white and yolk are solid, then mash it smooth, or offer a well-set scramble or a soft omelet. A small amount, about a third of an egg, is plenty for a first taste.

Cook oats with plenty of liquid into a smooth, thick oatmeal. Use breast milk, formula, or water, and thin it as needed so it's easy to swallow. Iron-fortified baby oat cereal works well here too.

Stir a small drizzle of olive oil into a smooth purée or soft mash to add calories and richness. Use it as a cooking fat for vegetables or grains, or fold a little into the finished food just before serving.