Starting Solids
Updated on 23 November 2022
From ancient ages to modern science, it’s unanimously accepted that solids must not be introduced until the baby’s digestive tract is mature enough to handle it. Most babies are developmentally ready for solids somewhere between 6 to 8 months and perhaps that’s the reason behind “Annaprashan” ritual being performed in the Indian culture around this age.
Now let’s understand 6 such telltale developmental signs that indicate your baby is ready for a taste change and for you to set bite size milestones for their further growth.
A rough estimation (although not backed up scientifically) says that babies are usually ready for solids when they are typically double the size of their birth weight. Nevertheless, this estimation can’t be the sole basis and should only be considered along with other developmental signs.
It is also evident that as soon as the baby is grown enough to become aware of the world around him/her, they also become fascinated by food. Gazing at food objects, trying to grab and feel them and opening their mouth in anticipation to taste a bite are also significant developmental signs of readiness for solids.
You can help your little one discover solid foods and grow their interest in healthy foods using the following tips:
It's important to choose a time that works well both for you and your baby. After you've given the first course of breast milk or formula milk to whet your little one's appetite, offer them some solids. Gradually, increase the offerings of solid foods.
You may want to avoid introducing solids to your baby when they are cranky, sleepy or fussy. An incoming spoon of food will be more enticing to your little one when they are alert and cheerful.
When it comes to food, haste definitely makes waste. Feeding one teaspoon at a time and practicing daily will help you and your baby finally establish a feeding routine. Try to be patient with your baby.
Sitting in an uncomfortable position and trying to feed your baby solids for the first time may not be the best way to go. Familiarize your baby with a feeding seat or high chair for a few days and once they are comfortable, then gradually introduce solids to them.
Your baby may have been born with a silver spoon but there's no need to feed them with it. A soft silicone or plastic spoon and a soft bowl will be much easier on your baby's delicate gums. Allow your baby to make use of their hands.
After you have practiced the above steps, it's time to introduce your baby to their first foods. Instead of bringing a spoon to their mouth, try putting some of it on their table or high chair tray and let them examine it, mash it or squish it. It may get a little messy but it's the best way to teach your baby to feed themselves.
Please also remember that even after you start solids, breast milk or formula must be the primary source of nutrition so, try to continue breastfeeding for at least a year.
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Written by
Priyanka Verma
Priyanka is an experienced editor & content writer with great attention to detail. Mother to an 11-year-old, she's a ski
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