As a new parent, introducing solid foods to your baby can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. You want to make sure your little one is ready to start eating something other than breast milk or formula, but it can be difficult to know when the right time is. Here are some signs that your baby may be ready to start solid foods:
Your baby can hold their head up on their own: In order to swallow food, your baby needs to be able to hold their head up and sit upright. If your baby is still wobbly and unable to support their head, they may not be ready for solid foods yet.
Your baby has lost the tongue-thrust reflex: When babies are born, they have a natural reflex that causes them to push anything that enters their mouth out with their tongue. As they get older, this reflex goes away and they are able to swallow food. If your baby is still pushing everything out with their tongue, they may not be ready for solid foods.
Your baby is interested in food: If your baby watches you eat and reaches for your food, it may be a sign that they are ready to start eating solid foods. Babies are curious and will often show an interest in what their parents are eating.
Your baby is at least four months old: Most babies are ready to start eating solid foods between four and six months old. If your baby is younger than four months, their digestive system may not be mature enough to handle solid foods.
Your baby is still hungry after a feeding: If your baby is still hungry after a feeding, even if they are getting enough milk or formula, it may be a sign that they are ready for solid foods. They may be ready for more substantial and filling meals.
Introducing solid foods to your baby is a big milestone, but it’s important to make sure your baby is ready. If you’re not sure, talk to your pediatrician. They can help you decide when the time is right and give you tips on how to make the transition to solid foods as smooth as possible.