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Introducing solid foods to your baby, also known as complementary feeding or baby-led weaning (BLW), typically begins around 6 months of age. This involves gradually introducing foods alongside breast milk or formula, as the baby's digestive system and motor skills develop. Both traditional spoon-feeding and BLW are common approaches, and some parents opt for a combination of both. Key aspects of solid food introduction: Readiness: Babies should show signs of readiness, such as being able to sit up with support, hold their head steady, and show interest in food. Breast milk/formula: Breast milk or formula remains the primary source of nutrition for the first year, so continue to offer it regularly. Variety: Offer a wide variety of foods, including vegetables, fruits, proteins, and grains, to expose your baby to different tastes and textures. Consistency: Start with soft, easily mashed or pureed foods, and gradually introduce more textured foods as your baby develops. Baby-led weaning (BLW): In BLW, babies are offered finger foods from the start and are encouraged to feed themselves. Traditional weaning: Traditional weaning involves feeding purees with a spoon, gradually introducing more textured foods. Choking hazards: Be mindful of potential choking hazards, such as whole nuts or grapes, and modify food appropriately for your baby's age and development. Patience: It may take multiple attempts for your baby to accept new foods, so be patient and don't be discouraged if they don't take to a new food right away. Consult with healthcare professionals: If you have any concerns or questions about introducing solids, consult with your pediatrician or a registered dietitian. Weaning - Start for Life - NHS What is weaning? Introducing your baby to solid foods, also referred to as weaning or complementary feeding, starts when your baby... NHS Your baby's first solid foods - NHS When to start introducing solid foods. Introducing your baby to solid foods, sometimes called complementary feeding or weaning, sh... nhs.uk Complementary feeding - Infant and Young Child Feeding - NCBI The most suitable consistency for an infant's or young child's food depends on age and neuromuscular development (19). Beginning a... National Institutes of Health (NIH) | (.gov) Show all

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