Contents
Introduction
Introducing solid foods can feel exciting, but also a little nerve-wracking. When should you start? What should you offer first? How do you know your baby is ready?
This stage is a big milestone in your baby’s development, and while it can bring uncertainty, it’s also full of joy. Let’s ease the overwhelm and walk through what to expect so you can confidently enjoy this transition with your baby.
When to Start
Most babies are ready for solids between 4 to 6 months of age. While 6 months is the recommended age by the American Academy of Pediatrics, some babies may show signs of readiness closer to 4 months. Every baby develops at their own pace.
Look for these signs of readiness:
- Able to sit up with little support
- Loss of the tongue-thrust reflex (pushing food out)
- Can hold their head up steadily
- Shows interest in food (watching you eat or reaching for food)
What to Feed First
Start with single-ingredient foods that are gentle on your baby’s developing digestive system and provide essential nutrients. These might include:
- Iron-fortified baby cereal (single grain)
- Pureed fruits like banana or pear
- Soft vegetables like sweet potato or zucchini
- Protein sources like pureed meats, lentils, or beans
You can choose between store-bought baby food or homemade options. Many great cookbooks guide parents through simple, nutritious recipes for babies and toddlers. Refer to our DIY baby food guide.
Hydration tip: Begin offering small sips of water with solid meals using a sippy cup.
Allergy reminder: Refer to our allergy introduction guide for important information about allergy prevention and safe food introductions.
The First Few Weeks
Start slow. These early meals are about exposure and exploration, not volume.
Simple feeding strategy:
- Introduce one new food at a time
- Wait 2–3 days before trying a new food to monitor for any reactions
- Begin with iron-rich (e.g., mashed beef, chicken, lentils) and zinc-rich options (e.g., eggs, chickpeas, meat)
- Use thin, smooth textures initially and gradually increase thickness as your baby adjusts
Start with a small spoonful, or even less. Your baby might reject it – and that’s OK. It’s normal for most of the food to end up on the floor at first.
Never force-feed. If your baby turns away, cries, or closes their mouth, take a break and try again another time. Over time, they’ll become more curious and capable.
How to Feed
Feeding solids is not just about the food—it’s also about the experience.
- Start with one new food at a time, and wait a few days before adding another
- Gradually progress textures: from purées → mashed → finely chopped → small soft finger foods
- Create a calm and positive mealtime environment
- Sit with your baby and allow them to explore with their hands
- Be responsive to their cues—watching for hunger, fullness, or disinterest
Avoid choking hazards like whole grapes, raw carrots, whole nuts, and chunks of meat. Limit added salt and sugar.
As Time Progresses
As your baby develops better motor skills and sits independently, they can begin self-feeding with finger foods like:
- Soft avocado or banana slices
- Small pieces of cooked veggies
- Soft scrambled egg
By this stage, your baby may eat about 4 oz (one small jar) of baby food per solid meal.
And remember: Breast milk or formula should continue as the primary source of nutrition throughout the first year. Solids complement, but don’t replace, milk feedings at this stage.
Key Takeaways
- Start solids between 4–6 months, based on your baby’s development
- Watch for readiness signs like sitting up and showing interest in food
- Begin with single-ingredient, iron- and zinc-rich foods
- Introduce new foods one at a time, watching for reactions
- Keep meals calm, positive, and responsive to your baby’s cues
- Avoid choking hazards, and offer water in small amounts
- Continue breast milk or formula throughout the first year
To learn more about what Dining With Nature offers for nutrition care – hit the Explore The DWN Programs button below or take a look at our Services page.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized medical advice or a substitute for professional guidance. Always consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or supplement routine.
