As soon as your baby is eating a few solid foods by himself, you may want to consider keeping a snack available when you go out of the house.

When waiting in line at the bank, or sitting at a restaurant or shopping in the mall, a few oat cereal rings or a cracker can help your child wait while you get important things done.

Nobody wants to use food as a babysitter or as a substitute for attention. But every once in a while, a well-placed nibble can make a real difference!

Published 01/02/09