When your baby starts to eat finger foods, be sure to follow these guidelines:

• Never leave your baby. Always stay close by when your baby is eating finger foods. Some foods still may cause him difficulty and could pose a choking hazard. It’s a good idea to learn how to intervene appropriately if your baby chokes; ask your doctor to demonstrate what to do. Or, sign up for a first-aid class at your local hospital.

• Make sure baby doesn’t bite off more than he can chew. Cut his food into small pieces rather than giving him a large piece.

• Size counts. Avoid feeding foods that could be swallowed whole, such as the foods listed on the bottom.

• No eating in cars. Avoid giving your baby finger food in the car.

Chewable foods: Some foods can cause choking in infants under a year old. Avoid giving your baby:

• Raw vegetables, such as carrot and celery sticks

• Grapes, cherries, and berries

• Raisins

• Hot-dog or other meat chunks

• Any nuts, such as peanuts, almonds, and cashews

• Popcorn

• Hard candy, even suckers

These foods need to be chewed; if they aren’t, they could be swallowed whole and lodge in baby’s throat.

Some foods can cause an allergic reaction in babies. They include:

• Chocolate

• Beans

• Corn

• Nuts

• Peanut butter

• Egg whites

• Seafood

• Citrus fruits and juices

Avoid these foods for baby’s first year, especially if there’s a history of allergies.