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When to start giving your baby solid foods
Breast milk or formula gives your baby all the nutrients they need from birth to around 6 months. Around 6 months, your baby also needs solid foods rich in iron, calcium and energy to grow.
Even when your baby starts eating solid foods, breast milk is still an important part of their diet. Keep breastfeeding as long as it feels right for both you and your baby. If breast milk is not available, give your baby formula milk instead.
Is your baby ready for solids?
Most babies are ready to start solids foods around 6 months.
Do not give solid food before 4 months
Your baby does not need solid food or water before around 6 months
Breast milk or formula is enough until 6 months
Signs your baby is ready to start first foods:
- holding their head up without support
- sitting up with little support
- having a strong suck and beginning to bite or chew
- opening their mouth when you offer food on a spoon
- reaching out for food or showing an interest in food (with their eyes, gestures and sounds).
If your baby is not showing these signs, wait a little longer and try again later.
Problems with giving your baby solid food too early or too late
Problems if solid foods is introduced too late
- Nutrient deficiencies, such as a lack of iron.
- Poor growth.
- Speech problems (due to a delay in their jaw and muscle development).
- Increased risk of developing food allergies.
- Refusal of new foods and textures.
- Make learning to chew harder
Problems if solid food is introduced too early
Babies should not be given any food before 4 months because their organs, muscles in their mouth and immune system are not ready for food.
Giving solid foods too early increase the chances of:
- choking
- sickness or diarrhoea because their body is not ready to digest food
- low amounts of breast milk (for breastfeeding mothers).
Tips to help you prepare your baby for solid foods
- Give your baby plenty of tummy time throughout the day to help strengthen their neck, back and arm muscles. Aim for about 30 minutes each day.
- Encourage your baby to reach and grasp for toys.
- Help your baby learn to chew by letting them use teethers or hard, resistant foods like a mango seed.
- Include your baby in family mealtimes and let them watch you eat and enjoy different foods.
- Read books about food with your baby and talk to them about different types of food.
- Learn about the signs of choking and what to do if your baby chokes.
Equipment you might need for your baby
- Highchair: look for a highchair that provides good support for your baby’s back and feet. This will help them sit comfortably and safely during mealtimes. If you are unable to use a highchair, hold your baby securely with plenty of support.
- Baby spoon: a flat soft baby spoon made from silicone or plastic can be helpful. It allows for easier scooping and gentle feeding.
- Plastic or silicone plates and bowls
- Open cup for drinking water: after your baby reaches 6 months of age, you can start giving them water in an open cup. This helps them learn sipping and drinking skills.
- Bibs
More information
You can find first aid information and courses here:
Remember that every baby is different. Follow your baby’s signs, go slowly, and enjoy this new stage together.
If you are unsure, talk to your child and family health nurse or family doctor for more information.
