By: Lydia Stimpson, M.S. CF-SLP
Introducing solids is an exciting milestone, but when is the right time? Around 6 months, most babies are ready to start eating solid foods, but each baby develops at their own pace. Here’s how to tell if your baby is developmentally prepared, and tips for each step.
Signs Your Baby is Ready for Solids –
- Good Head Control – Your baby can sit upright and hold their head steady.
- Interest in Food – They watch you eat and may try to grab your food or open their mouth when you eat.
- Loss of Tongue Thrust Reflex – They no longer automatically push food out with their tongue.
- Increased Hunger – They seem still hungry after a full day of breast milk or formula.
What to Start With –
4 to 6 Months
- What They Can Do: Sit with support, bring hands to mouth, and open their mouth for a spoon.
- What to Feed: Start with smooth purees and infant single-grain cereal mixed with breast milk or formula.
- Amount: Begin with offering 2-4 tablespoons of pureed food, once or twice a day.
6 to 9 Months
- What They Can Do: Sit upright with minimal support, lean forward or reach for food, and start munching.
- What to Feed: Introduce mashed or pureed foods with small lumps (like applesauce, oatmeal), soft chewable solids like toast or cheese strips, and small amounts of water in a sippy cup. May also start offering soft, mashable finger foods like banana, avocado slices, or cooked peas.
- Amount: Offer solids 2-3 times a day, gradually increasing the quantity and variety.
Key Tips to Remember–
- Developmental Readiness: Look for signs of head control, sitting, and interest in food.
- Breast Milk or Formula First: Even after starting solids, your baby’s main source of nutrition should still be breast milk or formula. Solid foods complement, but shouldn’t replace breast milk or formula.
- Consult Your Pediatrician: Always check with your doctor before introducing solids to ensure your baby is ready.
Introducing solids is more about getting your baby used to chewing and swallowing than providing nutritional benefits initially. Take it slow, follow your baby’s cues, and enjoy this exciting new phase!
If you live in the Charlotte area, and have any questions or concerns about your baby’s feeding, consider scheduling a feeding evaluation. A specialist from our speech therapy team can provide personalized guidance to ensure your baby is developing healthy eating habits.