Around 6 months, babies are ready to start their journey to solid food. But remember till year 1, breast milk is still their first choice for nutrition. Starting solids early is to help them to learn how to eat and experience many food textures. Quanitity of food isn’t the matter but it’s constant experience to solid is of the utmost importance.
No matter what feeding method you choose—traditional purees, baby-led weaning, or a mix of both—here are some tips to help you get started.
Is your baby ready for solids?
Even at 6 months, it’s important to watch for signs of solid food readiness in your baby, which may include:
- Are they sitting up with good head control
- Do they watch you while you eat or drink
- Do they bring objects to their mouth intentionally
- Are they excited to see food when brought closer to them
What all you can do
Timing is everything Wait about 30 to 60 minutes after nursing or formula feeding before serving solid food. Offer solids when your baby is well-rested and neither too hungry nor too full.
Start with once a day It may take a week or two for your baby to get comfortable with the process, so be flexible—it’s okay if they only eat solid foods once a day in the beginning. Around their first birthday, you can transition to a proper meal and snack schedule.
Allow baby to determine quantity At this stage, 1 to 2 spoonfuls of food is all your child may eat at each feeding session. Your baby should decide how much they eat. As mentioned, breast milk is still their primary source of nutrition till they are an year old.
Watch for gaging and choking To reduce the risk of choking, be sure your baby is sitting upright, not leaning backward or slumping forward.
Don’t force it. If the process of introducing solids gets frustrating, your baby may be giving you a sign that they’re not interested right now. If they cry, look away, or refuse to take a bite, stop and try again another time.
