It’s a challenge for children at this age to work with both hands at the same time. Peeling a banana is an excellent way to let them practice holding with one hand and peeling with another. And there’s a delicious reward at the end of it! Even though the real reward for the child is the act of peeling itself, it’s reassuring for Moms to know that your kids can soon reach for a wholesome and nutritious snack anytime they want!

At 11-months, Brooke and Mackenzie’s favorite snack is the organic version of Cheerios. I keep it in the bottom drawer of the kitchen cabinet in an open ziploc bag. I did a demonstration for them one day: how to open the drawer, where the cereal is, etc.

Two weeks ago, one day, while I was cleaning the bedroom, I came out to find Mackenzie sitting here with the drawer opened, eating Cheerios out of the ziploc bag!

Apparently the cheerios in the ziploc bag did not keep her interest, because the next day, I found her here, ziploc bag intact, eating directly out of the cereal box! Since then, when I am cooking their meal in the kitchen, they will come for a little pre-dinner snack whenever they want. Even if it spoils their appetite a little bit, I think the freedom and confidence that comes from being able to get your own food whenever you want is much more important!

Update on Friday, November 25, 2011 at 11:51AM by Stephanie Woo

Two days later, we found Mackenzie eating a chocolate cookie she had found at the back of the drawer and wrangled out of the packaging we thought we had sealed tightly. She even gave one to Brooke. Note to self: Move all cookies and sweet cereal OUT of the bottom drawer!

I met a pediatrician yesterday with her 8 month-old daughter, who is breastfed, but is often sick. I found out Dr. Mom feeds her jar baby food (organic, too!) everyday. Jars are so convenient for busy moms, but imagine how your body would feel if you ate out of a can or a jar EVERYDAY, 2 meals a day, for 3 months. Real food is so much cheaper and healthier. Steam veges and brown rice, blend. Done.