Feeding
Introducing Solid Foods
Start solids around 6 months (not before 4 months). Signs baby is ready: sits with support, has good head control, shows interest in your food, can move food from front to back of mouth.
Start with single-ingredient purees or baby-led weaning. Introduce one new food every 3-5 days to watch for allergies.
Common first foods: iron-fortified infant cereal, pureed vegetables (sweet potato, carrots), pureed fruits (banana, avocado, apple).
What to Do
- Wait until baby is around 6 months old and shows readiness signs
- Start with 1-2 teaspoons once per day, gradually increasing
- Choose iron-rich foods first (iron-fortified cereal, pureed meats)
- Introduce one new food at a time, waiting 3-5 days before next new food
- Include common allergens early (peanut butter, eggs, dairy, fish) - new guidelines
- Offer water in sippy cup with meals (breast milk/formula still primary nutrition)
- Never add salt, sugar, or honey (honey is dangerous under 1 year)
- Watch for choking hazards - no whole grapes, nuts, popcorn, hard candies
When to call a doctor
Call doctor immediately if baby shows signs of allergic reaction: hives, swelling, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or severe diarrhea after new food.