Starting Solids: When and How to Begin

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The first spoonful is a little event – with a camera in one hand and doubts in the other. When is the right moment? What should you start with? If you’ve heard five different opinions from five different people, today we’ll sort out the facts. And remember – starting solids is the beginning of an adventure, not a sprint.

When is it time?

The World Health Organization and the UK’s NHS recommend introducing first solid foods at around 6 months of age. The US CDC adds that starting before 4 months isn’t recommended. But age is only half the story. The other half is the signs of readiness.

How can you tell your baby is ready?

The NHS describes three signs that need to be there together:

• your baby can sit up and hold their head steady;
• they coordinate eyes, hands and mouth – they see the food, pick it up and put it in their mouth;
• they swallow food rather than pushing it back out with their tongue.

And here’s what isn’t a sign of readiness (even though it’s often taken as one): chewing their fists, waking more at night or wanting more milk. These are normal baby behaviours. And let’s bust a myth: according to the NHS, there’s no evidence that solid food makes a baby sleep through the night. 😅

What to start with

• Start with small amounts – a few spoonfuls or a few finger-sized pieces of soft food. The first weeks are for tasting, not filling up.
• Milk (breast milk or formula) remains the main food for a long time after the first spoonful.
• Good first foods are puréed, mashed or softly cooked vegetables and fruit. The NHS suggests also offering more bitter vegetables – broccoli, courgette, cauliflower – so your baby gets used to different tastes.
• Gradually add foods rich in iron (meat, fish, beans and lentils, fortified cereals) – after 6 months the need for iron grows.
• Stick to this: no salt and no added sugar, and honey waits until after the first birthday.

How to keep it calm

• Pick a time when your baby is neither very hungry nor very tired.
• Sit them upright and never leave them alone with food.
• Let them touch, get messy and explore. That’s part of learning.
• If they refuse a food – try again later. Sometimes it takes many tries before a taste becomes familiar.

For the dads

Starting solids is your chance to become the family’s head chef. Mashed veg doesn’t need a Michelin star – just patience and a healthy appetite for mess.

When to talk to your paediatrician

If your baby was born early, has eczema or an allergy, has trouble swallowing, or if you’re thinking of starting before 6 months, discuss your plan with your paediatrician first. Also if you notice a rash, swelling or vomiting after a new food. If your baby has difficulty breathing or swelling of the lips and face, get emergency help (112).

📖 Read next: Breastfeeding in the First Days: What to Expect · Baby-Led Weaning or Purées: Facts From Both Sides

In short

Around 6 months, when all three signs are there, with small amounts and lots of patience – that’s the whole secret recipe. Every messy cheek is proof that you’re moving forward together. Trust yourself – you have everything you need for this adventure. 🥕

Sources: NHS – Your baby's first solid foods; NHS Best Start in Life – Feeding your baby from around 6 months; HealthyChildren.org (AAP) – Baby Food & Feeding; CDC – Tips on introducing solid foods.