At what age can babies start eating solid food?

Babies should not be introduced to complementary foods before 4 months of age. Most babies are ready to start solids between 4-6 months when they show developmental readiness signs.

What are the signs my baby is ready for solid food?

Key signs include holding their head up, sitting with support, grabbing toys, bringing objects to mouth, showing interest in adult food, and making chewing movements. Your baby should demonstrate at least 6 of these behaviors.

What should be baby's first solid food?

Strained vegetable or fruit purees are generally considered suitable for first feedings. Start with just one or two spoonfuls and introduce new foods gradually.

Should I use a high chair when starting solids?

Pediatricians recommend holding your baby in your arms rather than using a high chair until they reach 6 months of age. This provides better support and safety during early feeding attempts.

When Baby is Ready for Solid Foods

Let's find out if your baby is ready to start trying solid food.

Complementary feeding should not be introduced before four months of age [1]. To check if your baby is ready to try their first solids, go through the following list [1, 2].

Which of the following is your baby doing?

Holds their neck and head,
Can sit up with support and maintain balance,
Grabs and holds toys,
Brings toys and other objects to their mouth and sucks on them,
Looks at adult food with interest,
Reaches for adult food,
Opens their mouth when presented with food on a spoon,
Makes occasional chewing movements.

If you said "yes" to more than six items, you can probably start introducing complementary foods to your baby’s diet. Check with your pediatrician before making any changes to your baby’s diet.

Strained vegetable or fruit purees are generally considered suitable for the first feedings. Take the baby in your arms (pediatricians do not recommend using a high chair for feeding until six months of age [3]), scoop a tiny amount of the strained puree with a baby spoon, and hold it to your baby's mouth. One or two spoonfuls of food will be enough for now.