Teething toys and necklaces aren’t the only things your baby can gnaw on for relief. Snacks made from wholesome foods can provide tasty nourishment while taming teething pain. These are perfect for older babies ages 8 to 12 months who have already started solid foods. Remember to always supervise your baby when feeding.
Cooling Cucumber Rings
Cucumber naturally helps relieve puffiness, which is why they’re so popular at spas. They also make a soothing and refreshing snack for teething babies to suck on. Simply peel and slice a cucumber into 1-inch rounds. Scoop out the seeds with a small spoon to make a ring shape that’s perfect for tiny hands to hold. Place in the refrigerator until chilled, then serve.
Homemade Milksicles
Frozen rings and teethers are a no-no because they can become too hard and damage gum tissue. But soft, frozen food like this milksicle are a gentler alternative that safely numb the gums. By making this at home, you won’t need to worry about added sugar or unwholesome ingredients. Use 4 ounces of breastmilk or formula along with a fruit of your baby’s choice, such as a pear, mango, or banana. Puree until smooth and pour into small popsicle molds, then freeze and serve. No molds? No problem — try an ice cube tray or yogurt containers.
Baby Bread Sticks
A simple alternative to store-bought teething biscuits are baby bread sticks. Cut 1-inch slices from your favorite loaf of bread and slice into long sticks. Bake at 200 degrees on an ungreased baking sheet for about an hour until fully hardened. These offer a firm texture for chewing, but will safely disintegrate as your baby gums them.
