And it's not enough that your baby shows interest in food. Because around 4 months they would literally put anything in their mouths ;)
I started solids with our daughter, Balbina, at 5.5 months. But how did I know the best age for her to start solids? First, I asked my pediatrician, who recommended beginning around 4 months. Then I did my own research and realized that starting at 4 months is outdated advice. As of today, the current research and guidelines recommend starting solids around 6 months (WHO). This is because babies usually begin meeting the development signs of readiness around 6 months. Every baby is different; some babies meet the signs around 5 months, and others a little later, like 7 months. This is the same as when babies start walking or talking at different ages.
What are the signs of development readiness?
1. Baby can sit up (without or very little support)
What does this mean? They can support themselves in a seated position for some time in a highchair without needing to be supported by any extra cushion or other 'stuff'.
Having the core strength to sit unassisted is an important indicator that the digestive system muscles are strong enough to move food from the mouth through the digestive system and back out. Additionally, being able to sit up will help to decrease the risk of choking on food.
2. Baby doesn’t automatically push food out of their mouth
Has your baby lost the tongue-thrust reflex yet? If you see your baby constantly pushing their food out of the mouth with their tongue, this can be a sign that the tongue-thrust reflex is still present, and they may not be ready for solids yet. The tongue-thrust reflex protects babies against choking to quickly get food out of their mouths.
3. Baby has good neck and head control.
Can your baby get their head towards a spoon and turn away to indicate they have had enough? This is also important for safety because if the head is still toppling, it can increase the risk of choking.
4. Baby shows interest in participating in mealtime.
Is your baby able to reach for food in front of him? Overall this sign should only be considered in combination with the other 3. Baby can already start showing interest in foods around 4 months but is not yet meeting the other development readiness signs. And overall, babies around this age are interested in everything and want to put everything in their mouth, and it's not only the interest in food ;)
When baby has met all the signs of readiness, the journey can start.
For me, starting solids was joyful but, at the same time, challenging, complex, and confusing. I wanted to make sure that I pick foods for our little one that is most nutrient-dense, have low choking risks, and are delicious at the same time. There is so much conflicting information out there, and it took me a while to find the best way for us as a family.
If you need any help or recommendations on your journey, please reach out, and I am happy to support you and your family.
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