Introducing solids

Signs that your baby is ready for solid foods:

-She can sit upright, and has good neck and head control

-She shows interest in food – the baby looks at you eating and reaches out for your food

-She is ready when she can open her mouth every time you offer food

When to introduce solids?

It is recommended from around 6 months, but not earlier than 4 months.

In some special cases, your doctor could suggest introducing solids at around 4 months for example for babies who are dealing with reflux.

Milk should remain your baby’s

main source of nutrition until the age of 1, so solids should be given to your baby after bottle feeding.

How to start, and with what kind of food?

I usually suggest families start with vegetables first, rather than with fruit. If you give your baby a nice sugary fruit, it may refuse to eat something which is not sweet. However, this is totally up to you.

Do not use salt, sugar or any seasoning in their meal!

Make sure that is very well mashed and that it doesn’t contain any big pieces to avoid choking.

The first time is never easy, so don’t worry about the quantity. For the first time, offer only 1-2 teaspoons of food once a day. This is enough for the baby to get used to eating solids. Later on, you can gradually increase the quantity. It’s all about practice and patience.

It is a fun and messy process, but when your family is finally able to sit down for a meal, it is worth it.