Starting your child on solids

There are many significant milestones that parents experience with their children. One of the first milestones in a baby’s development is starting solids. Starting your baby on solids is an exciting time, but there may be many questions that come with this process.

Here is some key information parents can use when considering starting their baby on solids.

It is recommended that you can start your baby on solids around six months but not before 4 months. Breastmilk or formula continues to be a baby’s main source of nutrition until they are 12 months old. It's important to know that introducing solids is more about getting your baby used to the process of eating, the chewing and swallowing of food, rather than providing the nutritional benefit of food.

If you are wondering what are the signs that your baby is ready to start solids, here is what to look for:

 -           Stable head and neck control

-           Able to sit up supported

-           Showing interest in food

-           Reaching for food and watching others eat

-           Loss of their thrusting tongue reflex

When starting solids, it is best to begin with single ingredient purees. There is no general rule on what food to start first, it may come down to experimenting to see what your baby likes. Always best to start simple with foods such as pureed banana, apple and pear, or sweet potato, pumpkin or baby cereal. It will be exciting to see which tastes your baby enjoys.

It's recommended to avoid honey before 12 months due to risk of infant botulism. It is also ideal to avoid any added sugar or salt content. Some parents may be concerned about potential food allergies when starting solids. Some of the most common childhood food allergies include shellfish, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, egg, cow's milk, and sesame.

Its always best to consult your GP with any allergy concerns when starting solids.

When feeding your baby solids for the first time here are some simple tips to follow:

-           Consider the timing of when you will provide solids – before or after breast or bottle.

-           Always make sure your child is seated securely in an upright position

-           Avoid force feeding – follow their cues

-           Be prepared with the right utensils and materials such as a baby spoon, bib, wipes, etc. It may be messy!

-           Ensure the food is pureed smooth to support swallowing

-           If your baby becomes upset or is not interested, stop and try again at another time.

-           Ensure the experience is relaxed, calm and not rushed.

-           Ensure you supervise your baby at all times whilst eating solid foods.