Quick Scoop
Most babies start **baby food or other solids at about 6
months** , not before 4 months. Signs your baby is ready include sitting with
support, good head control, opening their mouth for food, and swallowing
instead of pushing food back out.
What to Watch For
Look for these readiness cues:
- Sits up alone or with support.
- Controls head and neck well.
- Shows interest in food and opens mouth when offered.
- Swallows food rather than pushing it out.
- Brings objects or food to the mouth.
How to Start
Start small, usually with one meal a day and a few
spoonfuls. Many pediatric sources suggest beginning with single-ingredient
foods like iron-fortified cereal, mashed vegetables, or pureed fruits, then
gradually increasing variety and texture.
Safety Notes
Avoid starting solids before 4 months, and don’t rely on
baby food labels that say “from 4 months” as a reason to begin early. Also
avoid choking hazards such as whole grapes, hot dogs, nuts, popcorn, and large
chunks of food.
Allergy Tips
Common allergen foods can be introduced around 6 months
in age-appropriate forms, one at a time, so you can watch for reactions. That
includes foods like egg, wheat, and dairy used in cooking or mixed into food.
Bottom Line
A simple rule is: **wait until about 6 months and your
baby shows readiness signs**. If you want the safest next step, start with a
small amount of soft, single-ingredient food and follow your baby’s cues.
