Is my baby ready for solids?

When to start

Most babies are ready for foods other than breast milk or formula at about 6 months. Starting before 4 months isn't recommended. Every baby is different, so look at your baby, not just the calendar.

From 6 to 12 months, breast milk or formula is still the main source of nutrition. Solid foods gradually become a bigger part of the diet.

Signs your baby is ready

Look for these signs together:

• Sits up alone or with support
• Can control their head and neck
• Opens their mouth when you offer food
• Swallows food rather than pushing it back out onto their chin
• Brings objects to their mouth
• Tries to grasp small objects, such as toys or food
• Moves food from the front to the back of the tongue to swallow

If the first tries don't go well

If your baby pushes the food out and it dribbles down their chin, they may not be able to move it to the back of their mouth yet. That's normal: they've never had anything thicker than milk.

Try thinning the food the first few times, then gradually thicken it. Or wait a week or two and try again. If your baby cries or turns away, don't make them eat.

Babies born early

If your baby was born early, ask your pediatrician when to start. This app counts your baby's age from their due date (corrected age) where that applies.

Making first meals go smoothly

• Milk first: breast milk or formula is still the main food. Some parents offer a milk feed 30 to 60 minutes before solids; at 6 to 9 months, solids add to milk rather than replace it.
• Pick a calm time: when your baby is rested and alert, like mid-morning, rather than late evening when they’re overtired.
• Limit distractions: turn off screens and make mealtime calm and focused.