Now that you know about the different approaches to weaning, let’s see whether your baby is developmentally ready to start their baby solid food journey.

What do we mean by “developmentally ready”?

Before introducing solids, babies must be developmentally and physically ready so as to avoid choking accidents and to help them develop a positive relationship with food. Parents often wonder about the signs of readiness for solids or how to spot the right signs to start weaning — these are crucial for ensuring safety and enjoyment when offering semi solid food for babies.

4 Signs that Your Baby is Ready to Wean Off and Begin Feeding on Solid Foods

1. Strong neck and head control

 By 6 months, your baby's neck muscles are usually strong enough to hold their head steady when sitting upright. This is important for preventing choking and is an important factor in the baby’s first solid food journey.

2. Independent sitting

Your baby should be able to sit up on their own, even if only for a few seconds at a time. Independent sitting is one of the clear signs of readiness for solids.

3. Reaching and grabbing

When your baby starts to reach out and grab objects, it's a sign that they are developing hand-eye coordination. This skill will be important for self-feeding once you begin starting baby on solids.

4. Interest in food

 If your baby seems curious or interested in food, this is a strong sign that they are ready to start exploring new tastes and textures through semi solid food for babies.

FAQs

1. When to start solid food for babies?
Most experts recommend starting baby on solids around 6 months, when they show the signs of readiness for solids such as good head control, sitting with support, and interest in food.

2. Can we start solids at 5 months?
Some babies may be ready slightly earlier, but ideally, wait until you notice clear signs to start weaning like grabbing food, showing curiosity, and sitting with support. Always consult your pediatrician before introducing solids at 5 months.

3. How do you know baby is ready for solids?
Look out for key developmental milestones: strong head control, ability to sit with support, interest in food, and the ability to grab. These are the main signs of readiness for solids.

4. How to know baby is ready for weaning?
Signs to start weaning include your baby opening their mouth for food, watching others eat with curiosity, and managing semi-solid textures without pushing food out with their tongue.

We Suggest

If your baby is not showing any of these 4 signs, that’s completely okay. Don’t compare your baby to other babies. Your baby will get there soon!