One of the biggest milestones in your baby’s first year is starting solid foods. But the question every parent asks is, “When is the right time?”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and most pediatricians, the ideal age to begin solids is around 6 months. Until then, breast milk or formula provides all the nutrients your baby needs to grow strong and healthy.
Why wait until 6 months?
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Digestive readiness: Before this age, a baby’s gut is still maturing. Starting solids too early can put unnecessary strain on their digestive system.
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Nutritional balance: Breastmilk or formula contains the perfect blend of nutrients, hydration, and immune-boosting benefits your baby needs.
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Oral development: Babies need time to develop the coordination to move food from the front of their mouth to the back and swallow safely.
How Do You Know Your Baby is Ready?
Not every baby hits milestones at the exact same time, but here are some common signs your little one is ready to try solids:
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✅ Sits with minimal support – Your baby should be able to sit upright in a highchair without slumping. This reduces the risk of choking.
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✅ Shows interest in food – If your baby starts reaching for your plate, watching you eat intently, or opening their mouth when you bring food close, it’s a clear sign of curiosity.
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✅ Loss of tongue-thrust reflex – Newborns instinctively push things out of their mouths with their tongues. By 6 months, most babies outgrow this reflex, making it easier for them to swallow.
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✅ Good head and neck control—A strong, steady head is key for safe feeding.
How to Begin the Journey
When your baby shows the above signs, it’s time to introduce solids gently:
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🍌 Start with single-ingredient foods. Think mashed banana, pureed carrots, applesauce, or plain rice cereal.
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🥄 Go slow. Offer just a spoonful or two at first, once a day. Solids at this stage are about learning, not filling up.
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🧾 Introduce one food at a time. Wait at least 3 days before introducing a new ingredient. This makes it easier to spot any allergic reactions.
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🍼 Continue breastmilk or formula. Solids are meant to complement milk feeds, not replace them in the beginning.
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