Introducing your baby to solid foods is a major milestone that comes with many questions. Here’s how you can assess readiness for solids:
Consult Your Pediatrician: The best first step in determining if your baby is ready for solids is to consult with your pediatrician. They can provide personalized advice based on your baby's development and health needs.
General Age Range: While the readiness for solids can vary, many babies are ready to begin exploring solid foods anywhere from 4 to 7 months of age. Your pediatrician can help you identify the signs of readiness specific to your baby.
Signs of Readiness: In addition to your pediatrician's guidance, you can look for signs that your baby might be ready for solids. These signs include being able to sit up with minimal support, showing interest in food (e.g., reaching for or looking at your food), and the ability to swallow food rather than pushing it out of the mouth with the tongue.
Remember, every baby is unique, and the timing for starting solids can vary. A discussion with your pediatrician will ensure you’re making a plan that’s well-suited to your baby’s individual development and nutritional needs.