Quote Originally Posted by playfelt View Post
Those that will handle pieces of food should be given them. The others can be given some cheerios to keep them busy and then you spoon feed applesauce or similar. Should be able to feed two at a time.
I prefer to not just give cheerioes for every snack to the ones that can't handle advanced foods. Rather I am trying to give the middle ground (so I only have to prep one meal for all). The ones that can't handle the bigger items get it chopped to tiny bits and the others get it larger.

My problem is some foods just don't work well chopped up or are not the right softness so we have been avoiding them. If my group was large in age range (with some 2-3 year olds) then I would definitely do as you suggested. Since they are only a few months apart then I am trying to do the middle ground to expose the 'less experienced" to a bit more variety and more advanced foods without having to prepare completely different meals.

Lunches work fine because for some reason they can be made to a variety of skill levels with ease on my part.

I did find some recipes and will try out some bean dips and guacamole with crackers instead of just hummus. As well serving more beans and such for protein. I made some muffins but I am doubtful lol. I will try the banana bread that was suggested and it should hold up better. Maybe some pancakes too.

Trying to find a way to balance the exposure to chunks and bigger bits without triggering that gag/barf reflux too much!