Module 1: How do I know when my baby is ready for solid foods?


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Module Objective

After completing the module, parents will be able to identify 1) the recommended age when a baby should begin eating solid foods and, 2) at least two signs of baby’s readiness to eat solid foods.

It is best to wait to give solid foods until a baby is 6 months old, unless he/she is showing signs of readiness.

Watch this video to learn more about if your baby is ready to try solids:

Your baby may be ready for solids if he/she

  • Can sit up well without support
  • Does not push all solids out of his/her mouth with the tongue
  • Is ready and willing to chew
  • Can pick food up between the thumb and the next finger
  • Shows an interest in food and may try to grab food and put it in his/her mouth

Your baby may NOT be ready for solids if he/she

  • Cannot sit up well without support
  • Pushes solids out with his/her tongue when food is offered
  • Gags when a spoon or food is placed in his/her mouth
  • Is not willing to open mouth for food

Every baby is different in how soon he/she may be ready for solid foods.

  • Giving solid foods too early can cause choking, digestion issues, increased risk of obesity and other problems.
  • Giving solid foods before age 4 months does not help babies sleep better at night.

Checkpoint

Check a box for each of the questions below:

How important is it for me to wait until my baby is 4-6 months old to introduce solid foods?

Not at all important

Very important


How confident am I that I can wait until my baby is 4-6 months old to introduce solid foods?

Not at all confident

Very confident