Is your infant ready to start incorporating more food options into their diet? Babies typically start eating solid foods around the age of six months old; however, age can vary slightly depending on other developmental factors. It is important to know when and how to introduce solid foods to your baby. Here are a few things to know before getting started.

When Should I Introduce Solid Foods to My Baby?

Solid foods should be introduced when your baby is physically and developmentally ready. Signs that your baby is ready for solid foods can include:

• Your baby can sit in an upright position.
• Your baby can hold their head up on their own.
• Your baby will open their mouth as food comes their way.
• Your baby swallows food that is given to them, and does not spit it out.
• Your baby can grasp objects and food.

If you answered yes to all these statements, and your baby is around six months of age, your baby is most likely ready to start transitioning from breast milk or infant formula into more solid foods. If you are unsure if your baby is ready for solid foods, talk to your healthcare provider for more guidance.

Which Solid Foods Should I Be Introducing to My Baby?

Once you are confident that your baby is ready for solid foods, here are six new foods to incorporate into their diet and how to serve them.

Bananas

• Peel and mash with a fork.
• Add breast milk or formula if needed and serve.

Avocado

• Slice in half and remove the pit.
• Scoop out the flesh of the avocado.
• Mash with a fork.
• Add breast milk or formula if needed and serve.

Applesauce

This one is the easiest options on our list! In fact, applesauce is a great snack the entire family can enjoy together.

• Open up a jar of unsweetened applesauce, and serve.

Mangoes

• For best results, use frozen mangoes and simply thaw them out.
• Once thawed, put into blender or Magic Bullet and blend.
• Add breast milk or formula if needed, and serve.

Peaches or Pears

• Canned peaches and pears make for easy prep, but make sure to always check the label for sodium and sugar contents as these vary greatly!
• Blend desired amount.
• Add breast milk or formula if needed and serve.

Peas

• For best results, buy frozen peas.
• Thaw and either mash with a fork or blend together.
• Add breast milk or formula if needed and serve.

Transitioning from infant formula or breast milk into solid foods is an important milestone for your child! Have fun as you introduce your child to new foods and explore their taste buds. Remember to always talk to your healthcare provider if you are unsure about the transition process.