Starting Solids: A Major Milestone in Your Child’s Feeding Journey
Starting solids is an exciting and emotional step in your little one’s development. But many parents ask: "How do I know when my baby is truly ready?"
While age is a general guide (usually around 6 months), the most accurate way to tell is by observing your child's developmental cues.
Instead of relying on outdated advice, it’s important to focus on proven signs your baby is ready for solids. Recognising these signs helps make your child’s solids introduction smoother, safer, and more enjoyable—for both of you!
6 Signs Your Baby Is Ready for Solid Foods
If you're wondering when to start solids for your child, keep an eye out for these developmental milestones that should happen together:
1. Sitting up with minimal support
Your baby should be able to sit upright in a high chair or on your lap with some stability. A little help, like a rolled towel around their hips, is fine—but if your child is flopping forward or slumping to the side, they may not be ready yet.
2. Strong head and neck control
One of the most important signs of readiness is head control. Your baby should be able to keep their head upright and steady for extended periods (about 15 minutes), which is essential for safe swallowing.
3. Good hand-to-mouth coordination
If your little one can reach for toys or food and bring them purposefully to their mouth, it's a good indicator that they’re ready. This coordination is a big part of being able to handle solid foods introduction.
Going for Baby-led Weaning? Read more about the Types of food for a successful Baby-Led Weaning and The Foods to Avoid.
4. Opening mouth for food
Your child might watch you eat, get excited when food is nearby, or lean forward with an open mouth when food is offered. These behaviours show interest in solid foods and mimic natural feeding cues.
5. Swallowing food instead of pushing it out
Young babies have a reflex that causes them to push food out with their tongue. If your child has moved past this stage and can swallow small spoonfuls, it's a clear readiness cue.
6. Increased interest in mealtimes
Does your child mimic chewing, stare at your plate, or try to grab food? This interest in food shows that they’re becoming curious about what you’re eating and may be ready to try starting solids.
What’s NOT a Sign of Readiness?
Some common behaviours may be confusing, but they don’t necessarily mean your little one is ready for solids:
- Chewing fists
- Waking more frequently at night
- Seeming hungrier than usual or wanting more milk
These behaviours are completely normal and can happen during growth spurts. According to experts, introducing solids before 4 months is not recommended, even if your child seems hungrier.
Understanding the signs your baby is ready for solids ensures your child’s developmental needs are met and that mealtimes are safe and enjoyable.
Skipping this step or starting too early can result in gagging, choking, or digestive issues. Remember to check for any allergies while introducing first foods, which you can know more about it HERE.
Each child is different, and watching for the right milestones can make solids introduction smoother and less stressful for both of you.
Still unsure? Keep offering breast milk and wait until your child is developmentally ready. Trust the process—your baby will show you when it’s time.
References
U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (2024) When, What, and How to Introduce Solid Foods, Infant and Toddler Nutrition. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/infant-toddler-nutrition/foods-and-drinks/when-what-and-how-to-introduce-solid-foods.html
NHS (2022) Your baby’s First Solid Foods. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/baby/weaning-and-feeding/babys-first-solid-foods/
Solid Starts (2025) Readiness for Babies to Start Solid Food. Available at: https://solidstarts.com/readiness/?hcUrl=%2Fen-US
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