4. IT'S MUCH CHEAPER The prices that baby food manufacturers charge for their products is nothing short of scandalous and are in no way justifiable. The reason they can charge so much is because they've conditioned most parents to believe that they have no choice but to buy from them. By preparing your baby's food yourself, you can avoid being a victim of this daylight robbery, and find yourself with extra cash to spend on all those other things that a growing baby needs.

5. IT'S VERY GRATIFYING Watching your baby enjoy meal you've just prepared for him/her is already a very gratifying experience. On top of that, however, you have satisfaction and pride of knowing that you're giving your child gift of a healthy and nutritious diet - and saving yourself money as well.

And finally...

If all that weren't enough, here's another great reason to do it yourself: home-made baby food is much tastier than any commercial product. Delicious food is one of life's great pleasures and your baby deserves to enjoy rich flavor and texture of real home cooking just as much as you or I. After all, none of us would enjoy eating 'TV Dinners' morning, noon and night - and that goes for your baby too!

So, don't put it off. Get started today. Your baby will thank you for it in more ways than one.

Nancy.

DON'T FORGET THE BASICS Always test temperature of food before you serve it. Keep in mind that your baby's mouth is more sensitive than yours. Be sure to pay attention to good hygiene practices when preparing your baby's food.

NEVER BEFORE 4 MONTHS You may find that your friends and family -- with best of intentions -- will tell you to begin adding cereals to bottle when your baby is just a few weeks old. The story goes that this will help him/her sleep better at night. Please ignore this advice -- it is a myth. Your baby's body isn't ready to cope with any solid foods yet. Do NOT give your baby ANY solid foods before he/she reaches four months of age. Most babies begin transition somewhere between five and seven months (no later than eight months is recommended).

Finally, always keep in mind that every baby is unique. While there are some rules that are true for every child, feeding your baby is largely a process of 'learning on job'. After all, it's your baby who'll let you know when he/she is ready to try out new foods and it's your baby who'll tell you what he/she likes or doesn't like.

Use good old common sense. Follow guidelines, but don't be ruled by them.

Have Fun!

Nancy.