Starting Solids

Remember: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breast or formula feeding until 6 months of age.

Signs your baby is ready for solids

• How much should my baby eat?
• Your baby should be able to hold their head up without difficulty
• Your baby should open their mouth when they see food
• Your baby should be able to move their hands to their mouth
• Your baby should have strong trunk muscles- they should not slouch when in their high chair.

How to introduce solids

• Always make sure your baby is securely fastened in their high chair. Never feed your baby on your lap, in a stroller, bouncychair, or car seat.
• Offer a small amount (1 – 2 Tablespoons) of one new food at a time.
• When you introduce a new food, always monitor for any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Do not introduce more than one new food per day- this way, if you child develops a reaction, you will have a good idea of what they might be reacting to
• If your baby does not like a food, continue to offer it. It may take 10-15 times of trying a new food before they accept it.
• Give your baby a variety of flavors and textures.