The transition to solid foods, also known as complementary feeding, typically begins around six months of age for most babies. However, every baby is different, and readiness for solid foods depends on individual developmental cues rather than a specific age. Here are some signs that indicate a baby is ready for solid foods and tips on how to start introducing them:

Signs of readiness for solid foods:

1. Ability to sit up with minimal support: Babies should be able to sit upright and hold their head steady to swallow solid foods safely.
2. Lost tongue-thrust reflex: Babies should no longer push food out of their mouths with their tongues, a reflex present in younger infants.
3. Increased interest in food: Babies may show interest in what others are eating, reach for food, or open their mouths when offered a spoon.
4. Sucking motions: Babies may mimic chewing or sucking motions and show signs of readiness to move beyond breastfeeding or formula feeding.7

Tips for introducing solid foods:

1. Start slowly: Begin with single-ingredient, smooth purees or iron-fortified infant cereals mixed with breast milk, formula, or water. Offer a small amount of food once a day initially.
2. Introduce one new food at a time: Introduce a new food every few days and watch for any signs of allergies or sensitivities.
3. Use a soft spoon: Use a small, soft-tipped spoon to feed your baby, allowing them to control the pace of feeding and explore different textures.
4. Offer variety: Introduce a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein-rich foods to provide a range of nutrients and flavors.
5. Encourage self-feeding: As your baby becomes more comfortable with solid foods, offer soft, age-appropriate finger foods and encourage self-feeding to develop fine motor skills and independence.
6. Maintain breastfeeding or formula feeding: Solid foods complement breast milk or formula rather than replacing them entirely. Continue breastfeeding or formula feeding on demand to ensure adequate nutrition and hydration.
7. Watch for choking hazards: Avoid foods that pose a choking hazard, such as whole grapes, nuts, popcorn, and large chunks of food. Cut foods into small, manageable pieces and supervise your baby closely during meals.
8. Be patient: Some babies may take time to adjust to the taste and texture of solid foods. Offer new foods in a positive and relaxed environment, and don’t force-feed if your baby shows disinterest or refuses food.

By following these guidelines and paying attention to your baby’s cues, you can help facilitate a smooth transition to solid foods and support their healthy growth and development.