- Wash your hands and make sure the baby is seated upright in a high chair or on your lap with good head control. Always stay within arm's reach and supervise every bite.
- Choose a ripe but slightly firm banana: it should give a little when pressed but not be mushy.
- Peel the banana and cut it into thick finger-sized sticks: cut the banana in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 2–3 thick sticks (about 1–2 cm thick and 6–8 cm long) so the baby can grasp them easily.
- Spooning yoghurt: transfer the yoghurt into a small shallow dish. Use plain full-fat yoghurt suitable for infants (no added sugar or honey).
- Serve the banana sticks standing upright in the shallow yoghurt dish or place a small dollop of yoghurt on top of each stick so the baby can hold the banana and dip or lick the yoghurt—this encourages self-feeding and offers a soft, manageable texture.
- Feeding tips: offer one stick at a time. Allow the baby to explore the food at their own pace. If the baby gags, stay calm — gagging is a normal reflex in learning to eat solids; do not perform first aid unless there is a true airway obstruction. If unsure, seek immediate help.
- After the meal: discard any uneaten yoghurt left on the plate after 2 hours at room temperature or after 48 hours in the refrigerator. Rinse the dish and wipe the baby’s hands and face.
Summary
Simple baby-led weaning breakfast of banana finger pieces with a small yoghurt dip. Designed for babies ready for solids (commonly around 6 months); for younger infants (4–6 months) consult a paediatrician before offering solid pieces.
Storing options
Prepare just before serving for best texture. Cut banana will brown quickly—store cut banana covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours but texture may soften. Leftover yoghurt can be refrigerated and used within 48 hours. Do not freeze once mixed or plated for the baby.
Potential allergies
Yoghurt contains cow’s milk protein which can cause allergic reactions in some infants. Banana allergy is rare but possible. Introduce new foods one at a time and watch for signs of allergy such as rash, vomiting, diarrhoea or difficulty breathing; if these occur seek medical care immediately.
Side effects and safety
Gagging is common as babies learn to manage textures—this is different from choking. Always supervise, keep baby seated upright, and offer appropriately sized pieces. For personalised advice about introducing solids or allergy concerns, consult your healthcare provider.