Hi girls!
Hester, do you milk feed first? When we first started with Jack, we did milk feed then about 1 hr later had solids. This way he was getting the nutrients he needed from milk first (which is more important until he's 12 mo) and then he's not distracted/frustrated by hunger when he's "playing" with food.
MMM! Squash and sweet potato! I LOVE them! When I make squash/zucchini/courgette for myself, I cut into thick rings and steam until soft then eat (skin & all) with butter & salt. When making for a little one, I would peel and cut into spears like a cucumber (about the size/width of your index finger) and steam. Because Noah is so small, I would not steam it too long because squash can become very mushy!
For sweet potato, when I make it for myself, I will peel & cut into big chunks, parboil, and roast in the oven with honey. DELICIOUS!!! (DO NOT DO THIS FOR BABIES! Before 12 mo, honey is not recommended!) For Noah and babies his age, I would say to peel it and chop into thick sticks (they will shrink in the oven!) and roast. When he gets a bit older (like Jack's age) I would say cook it like a potato, mash the inside, and let him go for it! I do mini baked potatoes for J all the time! He loves it!
Amy, I have no idea! I cook them until when I spear them with a knife whilst cooking, the outside is soft, but the inside is still firm. I'd say that if you spear them and they fall right off the knife, it's too done!
HTH!