When should a baby start solid foods, and what are readiness signs?
Most babies start complementary foods at around six months while continuing breast milk or suitable infant formula. Readiness includes steady head control while sitting with appropriate support, coordinating hands, eyes and mouth, and swallowing food rather than pushing it out.
Details
Age is only part of the decision
Readiness signs usually occur together. Chewing hands or waking at night is not enough to establish readiness. Premature babies and children with swallowing difficulties need an individual plan from their care team.
Starting a meal
Offer small amounts of age-appropriate soft food, gradually including vegetables, grains and iron sources such as puréed meat or mashed pulses. Do not immediately replace milk feeds with large meals. Watch hunger and fullness cues and allow time for learning rather than pressuring the baby to finish.
Texture and safety
Keep the baby upright and supervised while eating. Avoid hard chunks and whole nuts, and do not offer honey before the first birthday. Introduce allergenic foods in small, age-appropriate amounts. Seek advice about their introduction if the child has severe eczema or an established food allergy.
Related reading: Why should babies avoid honey, and when can it be introduced?.