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Thanksgiving is a holiday for family, food, and connection—and yes, that includes your baby or toddler! Whether your little one is starting baby led weaning or already a confident eater, you can make the holiday table safe, fun, and memorable. With the right setup, baby-friendly Thanksgiving foods, and thoughtfully designed tableware like Loulou Lollipop's silicone suction plates, silicone suction bowls, silicone bibs, and long sleeve bibs, your smallest guest can be part of the feast.
6 Tips for Baby Led Weaning and Toddler-Friendly Holiday Meals
1. Seat Your Baby or Toddler at the Table
Making sure your little one has a place at the table helps them feel included.
- For babies starting solids, a high chair with a tray and footrest is perfect. Pair it with a silicone suction plate or suction bowl that stays put while they explore.
- Older toddlers might be ready for or prefer booster seat at the dining table. Add a non-slip silicone placemat to keep everything tidy and give them a sense of “their own spot.”
2. Encourage Independence with Baby Led Weaning Utensils
Thanksgiving is a great chance to let babies and toddlers practice self-feeding.
- Offer easy-grip utensils designed for baby led weaning.
- Toddlers will love practicing their scooping skills with mashed potatoes or roasted carrots.
- Expect spills —protect clothes with a silicone bib or a long sleeve bib that catches every bit of cranberry sauce.
3. Serve Baby- and Toddler-Friendly Thanksgiving Foods
Not all Thanksgiving dishes are safe for little ones, but many classics can be adapted.
- For babies under 12 months: soft turkey strips, mashed sweet potato, or well-steamed veggies.
- For toddlers: small servings of stuffing (without added salt), roasted squash, or green beans.
- Use a divided suction plate so different textures stay separate —a lifesaver for picky toddlers.
For ideas and recipes, check out:
4. Keep Drinks Simple and Spill-Free
Toddlers will want to join in the holiday “cheers”. Swap breakable cups for a silicone sippy cup with straw—safe, easy to grip, and less likely to tip over.
5. Make Thanksgiving Mealtime Fun
- Let toddlers choose their utensil colour (or animal) or bring their own placemat to the table.
- Narrate what’s happening: “Here’s your turkey, here’s your spoon,” to keep babies engaged.
- Keep the experience positive—even if they only eat a bite or two, they’re learning and celebrating with the family.
6. Keep Expectations (and Meals) Small
Babies and toddlers often don’t last through a long Thanksgiving meal. That’s okay!
- Serve small portions in a suction bowl before the main event.
- Take breaks if they get restless.
- Remember: mealtime is about connection, not perfection.
Bringing a baby or toddler to the Thanksgiving table is equal parts messy and magical. With a little planning, the right baby led weaning tools, and plenty of patience, your smallest family members can be part of the feast and the memories.
Disclaimer: Consult with your doctor to make sure your baby is ready to start solids. They should have good head control and be able to sit independently. Always supervise babies and toddlers while eating and consult your paediatrician if you have questions about starting solids and introducing new foods.