Help Kids Transition to Solid Foods

The journey from milk to meals is a beautiful milestone in your baby’s development—and one that often comes with a mix of excitement, questions, and a little bit of worry. If you’re wondering when to start, what to offer, or how to know if your baby is ready, you’re not alone. Many caregivers feel unsure about how to make this transition smooth and safe. The good news? With a little guidance and patience, introducing solid foods can be a joyful and bonding experience for both you and your child.

When Is the Right Time?

Most babies are ready to begin trying solid foods around 6 months of age. At this stage, they typically show signs of readiness such as:

• • Sitting up with minimal support

  • Showing interest in what others are eating

  • Losing the tongue-thrust reflex (which pushes food out of the mouth)

  • Being able to hold their head up steadily

It’s important to continue breastfeeding or formula feeding during this time, as solids are meant to complement—not replace—milk in the early months of introduction.

First Foods: What to Offer

Start with single-ingredient, iron-rich foods like:

• Iron-fortified baby cereals (such as oatmeal or rice cereal)

• Pureed meats

• Mashed beans or lentils

Vegetables and fruits can follow, introduced one at a time to monitor for any allergic reactions. Keep textures soft and smooth at first, gradually increasing thickness and variety as your baby becomes more comfortable.

Introducing Allergenic Foods

Research now supports introducing common allergenic foods early—around the same time as other solids—to help reduce the risk of food allergies. These include:

• • Peanut

  • Egg

  • Milk

  • Wheat

  • Soy

  • Fish

  • Shellfish

  • Sesame

  • Tree nuts

Always introduce these foods one at a time and in small amounts, watching closely for any signs of a reaction such as rash, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Make it fun: Sit together during meals and let your baby explore food with their hands.

• Be patient: It may take several tries before your baby accepts a new food.

• Stay consistent: Offer solids once a day at first, then gradually increase to two or three times daily.

• Use a cup: Around the same time solids are introduced, you can begin offering small sips of water in a training cup to help your baby learn new drinking skills.

When to Seek Support

If your baby is refusing all solids, gagging frequently, or you’re concerned about allergies or growth, don’t hesitate to reach out. Every child is different, and sometimes a little extra guidance can make all the difference.

Ready to start your baby’s solid food journey with confidence? Schedule a visit, we’re here to support you every step of the way!