One of the big questions we ask as parents is: "When should I start giving my baby solid food?"

The general recommendation is around 6 months old, but every baby is different.

Some signs our baby might be ready include:

• Sitting up with support

• Showing interest in our food

• Losing the tongue-thrust reflex (pushing food out)

• Being able to close their mouth around a spoon

We don't need to rush it. Starting too early or too late can affect digestion and development, so it's important to follow our baby's cues.

Start Simple with Single Foods

When we first begin, single-ingredient purees are best. This helps us spot allergies and makes it easier for the baby to digest.

Here are good first options:

• Mashed banana

• Steamed and blended carrot

• Smooth rice cereal (iron-fortified)

• Mashed potato or sweet potato

• Apple or pear puree

We should offer one new food every 3–5 days to monitor for any reactions like rash, diarrhea, or fussiness.

Texture Matters: From Smooth to Soft

In the early days, smooth and soft foods are key. As our baby gets better at chewing and swallowing (usually around 7–9 months), we can gradually introduce soft mashed foods, minced veggies, or tiny finger foods like soft-cooked broccoli or chopped banana.

By 9–12 months, babies can usually handle chunkier textures and more variety.

Don't Skip the Iron

From 6 months onward, iron becomes a key nutrient for baby's growth and brain development. Breastmilk alone doesn't provide enough, so we can introduce iron-rich foods such as:

• Iron-fortified baby cereals

• Pureed meat (like chicken)

• Mashed lentils or tofu

• Steamed spinach or egg yolk

Pairing iron-rich foods with a vitamin C source (like orange or tomato puree) helps with better absorption.

Allergy Awareness and Safe Introduction

We used to wait to introduce allergens, but now experts say it's better to introduce common allergens early and gradually, around 6–12 months, unless otherwise advised by a doctor.

This includes:

• Peanut butter (a tiny amount mixed into food)

• Eggs (fully cooked)

• Fish and shellfish (in very small portions)

• Wheat and dairy (in simple forms like yogurt or soft bread)

Always introduce one allergen at a time, in the morning, and watch for reactions like rash, swelling, or breathing issues.

What About Water or Juice?

Once solids start, we can offer small sips of water in a sippy cup with meals. But we should skip juice—it adds sugar without much nutrition.

Breastmilk or formula remains the main source of nutrition until the baby turns 1. Solid food complements it, but doesn't replace it entirely.

Creating a Mealtime Routine

Babies learn through consistency. We can start with one solid meal a day, then slowly increase to two or three meals over time. Try to feed solids around the same time each day, preferably when the baby is well-rested and not too hungry or too full.

Keep distractions low, and let the baby explore food with their hands—it's part of learning!

Don't Force It—Make It Fun

Sometimes, babies spit food out or reject a new taste. That's okay! It can take 10–15 tries for a baby to accept a new flavor. Our job is to offer, not pressure.

Let's keep the mood light. Smile, make eye contact, and let our baby enjoy the experience. Eating is not just about nutrition—it's also about building positive feelings around food.

Let's Learn and Grow Together, Lykkers!

Have you started solids with your little one? What food did they love—or make the funniest face at? Share your experience, and let's help each other through this exciting stage.

Every spoonful is a new adventure. With patience, care, and curiosity, we can build healthy habits that last a lifetime—for both baby and us. Let's make every bite count! 🥄