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One of the most exciting milestones in your baby’s first year is starting solid foods. It marks the beginning of a lifetime of tastes, textures, and healthy eating habits. But many parents wonder: When should I start? What should I feed my baby first? How do I know they’re ready?
This guide breaks down what pediatricians recommend for introducing solids in a safe, nutritious, and stress-free way.
🍼 When to Start Solid Foods
Most babies are ready to begin solids around 6 months of age, though some may show signs of readiness slightly earlier. Pediatricians typically recommend waiting until:
Baby can sit up with minimal support
Has good head and neck control
Shows interest in food (watching you eat or reaching for food)
Can close their mouth around a spoon
Avoid starting before 4 months, as their digestive system and reflexes may not yet be ready.
🥣 What Should You Offer First?
There’s no one “perfect” first food, but here are some pediatrician-approved choices to start with:
Iron-fortified single-grain baby cereals (like rice or oatmeal)
Pureed vegetables (carrots, peas, sweet potatoes)
Mashed fruits (bananas, avocados, applesauce)
Soft protein-rich foods (pureed lentils, tofu, well-cooked egg yolks)
Introduce one food at a time and wait 3–5 days before adding another. This helps identify any allergic reactions like rashes, diarrhea, or vomiting.
🥄 Tips for a Smooth Transition
Here are helpful pediatrician-recommended tips to make the shift from milk/formula to solids a healthy and happy one:
Start slow – Begin with 1–2 teaspoons once a day, then gradually increase.
Keep feeding responsive – Watch for hunger and fullness cues. Don’t force-feed.
Consistency is key – Offer foods even if baby doesn’t like them at first. It may take 8–10 tries.
Avoid added sugar and salt – Babies don’t need extra seasoning.
Include iron-rich foods – Breastfed babies especially need iron after 6 months.
🚫 Foods to Avoid in the First Year
Some foods pose a choking hazard or allergy risk. Pediatricians advise avoiding:
Honey (risk of botulism)
Whole nuts or nut chunks
Unpasteurized dairy products
Cow’s milk as a drink (use formula or breastmilk until 12 months)
Salty, sugary, or highly processed foods
🍴 Finger Foods and Self-Feeding
As baby gains coordination, usually around 8–9 months, start introducing soft finger foods like:
Small pieces of ripe fruit
Scrambled eggs
Well-cooked pasta
Soft cheese or tofu cubes
Supervise meals and make sure foods are cut into safe, manageable pieces.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Introducing solid foods is a big step—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following your baby’s cues and sticking to pediatrician-recommended practices, you’ll lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy eating. Keep mealtimes positive, go at your baby’s pace, and most importantly—enjoy the messy, memorable journey.
