Squash for Babies
Complete guide on how to prepare and serve squash to your baby, by age.
Safety Information
How to Serve Squash to a 6–9 Months Old
How to Cut
For babies 6-9 months, peel and remove seeds from the squash. Cook until very soft (steamed or roasted) and then mash thoroughly or puree to a smooth consistency. You can also offer long, thick strips (about 5-7cm/2-3in) of soft-cooked squash for baby to grasp and munch, making sure they are fully soft to avoid any choking hazard. Avoid serving raw or undercooked squash at this age, as it's too firm and can pose a choking risk.
Serving Instructions
Offer 1-2 tablespoons (15-30g/0.5-1oz) of well-cooked, mashed or pureed squash as part of a meal that includes a protein (like lentils, beans, or soft-cooked meat), an iron source, and a healthy fat (e.g. avocado or olive oil). Squash makes a great starter food as it’s gentle on tummies, naturally sweet, and easy to digest. Ensure the texture is smooth to minimize any risk. Always supervise your baby while eating.
How to Serve Squash to a 9–18 Months Old
How to Cut
At this age, squash can be cut into small cubes (about 1cm/0.5in) or strips, always making sure it's fully soft. For babies developing their pincer grasp, cubes are perfect for practice. Continue to avoid raw squash, as it remains a choking risk. Roasted, steamed, or boiled squash can be lightly mashed or served as bite-sized pieces depending on chewing skills.
Serving Instructions
Serve 2-4 tablespoons (30-60g/1-2oz) of soft-cooked squash as part of a balanced plate, including an iron-rich food, a protein, and a healthy fat. Encourage self-feeding with bite-sized pieces or cube shapes. At this stage, texture exploration is important, so offer both mashed and soft finger-food forms. Continue to adapt to your child's interest and ability to chew.
How to Serve Squash to a 18+ Months Old
How to Cut
From 18 months, most toddlers can manage bite-sized chunks (1-2cm/0.5-1in) of cooked squash safely. Continue to serve it soft and well-cooked, especially if your child’s chewing skills aren’t fully developed. If preferred, you can still mash or cube it for easier self-feeding. Raw squash can be introduced in thin, grated form once your child regularly chews and swallows well, but always supervise as texture exploration continues.
Serving Instructions
Most toddlers can enjoy 3-5 tablespoons (45-75g/1.5-2.5oz) of cooked squash as part of a varied meal that includes grains, a protein, and a source of healthy fat. Try adding cooked squash to pastas, omelets, or salads, or serve as finger-food. If introducing raw squash (such as grated in salads), start with small amounts and always supervise.
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