One of the challenges of rearing young children, is trying to feed them without getting covered in mush yourself.

Always make sure the high chair is stable and fitted with a safety harness. Too many accidents happen when children can wiggle out of the high chair and fall on the floor.

The main food related problem we have to consider with younger children, is choking. Babies and toddlers can easily choke on hard foods, such as peanuts, bones, raw carrot and apple pie.

If you are unsure whether you are giving the right foods, ask your local baby health professional. And never try to feed a distressed child, as they naturally inhale to scream and may choke.

Most babies go through a stage of putting everything they can into their mouths, and at this time they are also mobile. Basically, any object smaller than a ping pong ball is a potential choking hazard.

Coins and buttons and batteries are particular hazards.