Are you a new parent wondering when and how to start your baby on solid foods? The journey of introducing solids to your baby can be both exciting and overwhelming. But fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this milestone in your baby’s development.

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When to Start Introducing Solids to Your Baby

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends starting solids around 6 months of age. At this stage, most babies have developed the necessary skills, such as sitting up and showing interest in food, to begin experimenting with new tastes and textures. My twins started solids at 4 months old, but always go with what you feel is right and what your pediatrician recommends. Of course, every baby is unique, so it’s essential to watch for signs of readiness, such as:

Ability to sit up with support
Loss of tongue thrust reflex
Showing interest in what you’re eating
Ability to grasp objects

How to Introduce Solids to Your Baby

Start with Single-Ingredient Foods: Begin with simple, single-ingredient purees like mashed bananas, sweet potatoes, or avocado. This helps you identify any allergies or intolerances and allows your baby to adjust to new flavors gradually.
Consistency is Key: Aim for a smooth and runny consistency at first, gradually thickening the texture as your baby becomes more accustomed to eating solids. You can achieve this by adding breast milk, formula, or water to thin out the purees.
Introduce One New Food at a Time: Introduce new foods one at a time, waiting a few days between each new introduction. This allows you to monitor for any adverse reactions and pinpoint the cause if an allergy develops.
Offer a Variety of Foods: As your baby gets older, introduce a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins to provide a well-rounded diet. Experiment with different flavors and textures to help expand your baby’s palate.
Follow Your Baby’s Lead: Pay attention to your baby’s cues during feeding time. Let them dictate how much they want to eat and respect their hunger and fullness cues. Mealtime should be a positive and enjoyable experience for both you and your baby.

Essential Products for Introducing Solids to Your Baby

High Chair: Invest in a sturdy and easy-to-clean high chair that provides proper support and safety for your baby during mealtime. Look for features like adjustable height and recline options for added versatility. I used the Graco 7-in-1 highchair for my son.
Baby Food Maker: While not necessary, a baby food maker can simplify the process of preparing homemade purees by steaming and blending fruits, vegetables, and grains in one convenient appliance. We love our Baby Brezza for this.
Soft-Tip Infant Spoons: Opt for soft-tip infant spoons designed specifically for your baby’s delicate gums and mouth. Look for BPA-free and dishwasher-safe options for easy cleaning. We use the NumNum spoons.
Reusable Food Pouches: Ideal for on-the-go feeding, reusable food pouches allow you to store and serve homemade purees and snacks conveniently. Look for leak-proof and dishwasher-safe options for hassle-free use. We like Panda Bear pouches.
Bibs and Burp Cloths: Keep messes to a minimum with waterproof bibs and absorbent burp cloths. Look for easy-to-clean materials and adjustable closures for a comfortable fit. We use the bibs by Busy Baby, I feel like there is no point in buying any other bib

Introducing solids to your baby is an exciting milestone that marks the beginning of their culinary journey. By following the recommended guidelines and using essential products designed to simplify the process, you can make mealtime a positive and enjoyable experience for both you and your little one. Remember to be patient, have fun, and savor every messy moment!

I’ve created a free printable guide for you of some foods you can try with a brief list of food allergies to look out for! Print it and keep on your fridge for easy reference!