Introducing solid foods to your baby should start when he or she’s about 4 to 6 months old, although it is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics to exclusively breast feed babies up to 6 months. But if you’ve noticed your baby becoming willing and ready to eat solid foods, then it may be the time to introduce it to them.

When are they ready?

If you’ve noticed that your baby is now able to keep his head steady in an upright position and can now sit properly, then he’s getting on his way to eating solid foods. Also, babies who are starting to lose the extrusion reflex, have started to show chewing motions and starting to get more curious about the foods you eat, has a growing appetite and has gain weight significantly, then he’s more than likely now ready to eat solid foods.

How should I introduce it and how much should I give?

Solid food is extremely new to him especially that he’s been used to feeding only on milk. A good start would be to introduce your baby with rice cereal, which is gluten-free and is less allergenic compared to other baby foods. You should start introducing the solid food by first giving him his bottle of milk, then feed him with one or two teaspoons of dry cereal mixed with enough formula or breast milk to make it gooey. Try using a soft-tipped plastic spoon so that your baby’s gums aren’t hurt. Do not rush into feeding him with solid foods. Begin with putting cereal on the tip of the spoon before introducing to him.

Tips along the way

There are instances when babies do not show interest with eating from the spoon. Allow him to taste the cereal and wait for him to respond to the idea of eating solid foods. Also, do not attempt to put solid foods in the bottle to avoid confusion.

Try to feed him solid foods once a day, finding times that are convenient to both of you. At first, your baby won’t eat much yet since it is still new to him, but as you progress, he will begin to gain more experience with it. Also, give your baby more time to practice in keeping the food in his mouth.

After a few days or even weeks, he’ll become used to the new routine, and with become ready to take a few tablespoons of cereal a day. And as the amount of cereal increases, increase also the consistency of the food to practice his chewing and swallowing.