When to Start Baby on Solid Foods

When to start baby on solid foods is one of the most common questions new parents face. While milk provides essential nutrition in early months, there comes a time when babies need more than just breast milk or formula. Knowing the right moment can ease the transition and promote healthy growth.

Why Timing Matters

Introducing solids too early may increase the risk of choking or allergies. On the other hand, waiting too long can lead to nutritional deficiencies and feeding challenges. Experts like the World Health Organization recommend introducing solids around 6 months, but each baby is unique.

Signs Baby Is Ready for Solids

Not sure if your baby is ready? Look for these key signs baby is ready for solids:

Baby can sit up with little or no support
Shows interest in food (watches you eat or reaches for your plate)
Has lost the tongue-thrust reflex (doesn’t push food out with tongue)
Can hold their head steady for extended periods
Increased appetite or seeming unsatisfied after milk feeds

When you see several of these signs consistently, it’s a good indicator that your baby may be developmentally ready for the next step.

Best First Solid Foods

The best approach is to start with single-ingredient foods that are easy to digest and unlikely to cause allergies. Some common baby first solid foods include:

Pureed vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes
Mashed fruits such as banana or avocado
Iron-fortified single-grain baby cereal (like rice or oat cereal)

Introduce one food at a time and wait 3–5 days before offering another to monitor for allergies.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

Starting solids is a big milestone. Here are some tips for success:

Begin with small portions – a teaspoon or two is enough
Use a soft-tipped spoon and seat baby upright
Choose a calm time of day when your baby is neither too tired nor too hungry
Allow baby to touch, smell, and play with the food – it’s part of learning
Be patient – sometimes babies need several tries before accepting new flavors

Foods to Avoid at First

Not all foods are safe for infants. Avoid:

Honey (can cause infant botulism)
Whole nuts and hard foods (choking hazards)
Added salt or sugar
Unpasteurized dairy or undercooked meats

Conclusion: Trust the Signs and Take It Slow

Knowing when to start baby on solid foods can make mealtime exciting instead of stressful. Pay attention to readiness signs, start slowly, and keep feeding fun and safe. With time, your baby will learn to enjoy a wide variety of healthy foods.

Resources

For more support on introducing solids to baby, visit the CDC Infant Nutrition Guide or check out our Baby Care section.

When to Start Baby on Solid Foods – Key Signs & Tips