When should you start solids?

Most major health organizations recommend starting solids at around 6 months.

Before that, your baby also needs to show signs of readiness. Common signs include:

• sitting up well with support
• holding their head steady
• opening their mouth when food is offered
• swallowing food instead of pushing it straight back out
• bringing objects to their mouth
• trying to grab small items
• moving food from the front of the mouth to the back to swallow

Key takeaway

• Around 6 months is the usual time to start
• Before 4 months is not recommended
• Keep giving breast milk or formula when you start solids

Sources

• WHO: Complementary feeding
• WHO: Infant and young child feeding
• CDC: When, What, and How to Introduce Solid Foods