Introducing Solid Foods
1. Wait for the Right Time
Introduce solid foods when your baby is around six months old and shows signs of readiness, such as sitting up, showing interest in food, and losing the tongue-thrust reflex.
2. Start with Single-Ingredient Foods
Begin with single-ingredient purees, like mashed avocado, sweet potato, or rice cereal, to help your baby adjust to new textures and flavors.
3. Introduce New Foods Gradually
Introduce one new food at a time, waiting a few days between new foods to monitor for allergies or sensitivities.
4. Encourage Self-Feeding
As your baby grows, encourage them to hold and explore soft, age-appropriate finger foods, helping them develop their fine motor skills and sense of independence.
5. Offer a Variety of Textures and Flavors
Expose your baby to a wide range of tastes and textures, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins, to help them develop a diverse palate.
6. Be Patient and Supportive
Introducing solids can be a slow process, so be patient and follow your baby's cues. Offer encouragement and praise as they explore new foods.
