When is the right time to introduce first foods? Understanding readiness signs and safe introduction practices

At approximately six months old, my daughter developed an intense fascination with my meals. Despite being a breastfeeding champion, her eyes would track my fork’s journey to my mouth during every meal. One day, tired of merely observing, she reached hungrily for my plate, determined to grab whatever her little hands could reach.

If your baby exhibits similar behavior, it’s one of several signs indicating potential readiness for solids. But what if your child is younger? The Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) recommends waiting until babies reach six months before introducing simple solid foods. However, Dr. Henry Ukpeh, a pediatrician in Trail, B.C., and CPS spokesperson, emphasizes that this timeline isn’t absolute.

Four Months or Six Months?

Annabel Karmel, bestselling author of Starting Solids (DK Books), acknowledges that parents often feel confused about when to begin solids based on conflicting advice from physicians and other parents. “There is no single right age,” she explains. “Follow the guidelines if that provides comfort, but if you feel your baby wants solids earlier, don’t worry. You’re not causing harm.”

Dr. Ukpeh concurs. “Some people advocate for four months, some for six, but the reality is anytime in between,” he states. “The four-to-six-month window also recognizes that children differ—some may be ready, while others may not be.”

However, both experts strongly advise against starting earlier than four months. Physiologically, babies cannot handle solids before 17 weeks due to their immature digestive and immune systems, Karmel explains. Additionally, before six months, there may be no need to rush introducing pureed foods if your baby is contentedly breastfeeding or bottle-feeding and shows no interest in solids, says Dr. Ukpeh. “Breast milk is a complete meal.”

At six months, however, your baby will need the added nutrition, tastes, and textures of solid foods alongside breast milk or formula until they reach 12 months old.

Recognizing Readiness Signs

Tami Colville of Toronto says she didn’t feel pressured to start solids with son Milo, now 15 months, but noticed as he became more active past six months, his hunger increased. “He started grabbing my food and especially items his older sister Ella was eating.”

Additional indicators your baby might be ready include:

Increased hunger: She seems hungry for each feeding earlier than usual or still appears hungry after feedings

Physical development: She can sit up without support and has good control of her neck muscles

Oral motor skills: She holds food in her mouth without immediately pushing it out on her tongue

Communication: She indicates she doesn’t want food by leaning back or turning her head away

Interest in food: She watches others eat with fascination and reaches for food

Loss of tongue-thrust reflex: She no longer automatically pushes solid objects out of her mouth with her tongue

Understanding Food Allergies

Some believe children may develop food allergies if introduced to solids earlier, but this is typically only a concern with a family history of seasonal and food allergies, says Dr. Ukpeh.

Karmel advises parents not to withhold certain solids from babies—unless your baby shows signs of eczema, which may indicate food allergy predisposition. “Withholding is not the right approach. Consult allergy specialists and they’ll recommend giving these foods (egg, fish, meat), and giving them early. If your child is allergic to them, you’ll know. Delaying these foods won’t make any difference if your child will develop an allergy. You might as well find out right away.”

Dr. Ukpeh suggests spacing out the introduction of new foods by a few days so, if your child does have an allergic reaction, “you’ll know what they’re reacting to.”

Safe Introduction Strategies

Start with Iron-Rich Foods

The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends parents begin with foods containing iron, which babies need for proper development. Good sources include:

  • Single-grain, iron-fortified infant cereal such as rice or barley
  • Pureed meats
  • Cooked legumes

Ideal First Fruits and Vegetables

Great first fruits and vegetables, according to Annabel Karmel, include:

  • Apple (cooked and pureed)
  • Banana
  • Pear
  • Avocado
  • Sweet potato
  • Butternut squash
  • Steamed carrots

Progression to More Complex Foods

After establishing tolerance to first foods, you can move on to:

  • Meat
  • Poultry
  • Cooked egg yolk
  • Well-cooked legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)
  • Other vegetables and fruits
  • Whole grains

Practical Tips for Introducing Solids

Timing and Frequency

Start with once daily, choosing a time when your baby is alert and happy—not overly hungry or tired. Mid-morning or early afternoon often works well. Gradually increase to two, then three meals daily as your baby shows interest and capability.

Portion Sizes

Begin with just one or two teaspoons of food. Your baby’s stomach is small, and initially, solid foods are more about exploration than nutrition. Breast milk or formula remains the primary nutrition source until around one year.

Texture Progression

Start with smooth, thin purees and gradually thicken them. Around 8-10 months, introduce mashed foods with soft lumps. By 10-12 months, many babies can handle soft finger foods and participate in family meals with appropriately prepared foods.

Creating Positive Mealtime Experiences

  • Allow your baby to touch, smell, and explore food
  • Expect mess—it’s part of learning
  • Never force-feed
  • Respect signs of fullness
  • Offer the same food multiple times; rejection on first try doesn’t mean permanent dislike
  • Model healthy eating by sharing mealtimes as a family

Foods to Avoid in the First Year

Certain foods should be avoided during the first year:

  • Honey (risk of botulism)
  • Whole cow’s milk as a drink (though small amounts in cooking are acceptable)
  • High-sodium foods
  • Added sugars
  • Choking hazards (whole grapes, nuts, popcorn, hard candies)
  • Undercooked eggs, meat, or fish

Refusing Foods

Food refusal is normal. Babies may need exposure to a new food 10-15 times before accepting it. Continue offering without pressure.

Constipation

As diet changes, constipation may occur. Ensure adequate fluid intake, offer prune puree or other high-fiber foods, and consult your doctor if problems persist.

Gagging vs. Choking

Learn the difference between gagging (a protective reflex) and choking (airway blockage). Gagging is normal as babies learn to manage food. Always supervise meals and know infant CPR.

The Journey Ahead

Starting solids marks an exciting milestone in your baby’s development. While guidelines provide helpful frameworks, remember that every child is unique. Trust your instincts, watch for your baby’s cues, and consult your healthcare provider with any concerns.

This phase transforms your baby from solely milk-fed infant to an adventurous eater exploring the world of flavors and textures. Embrace the mess, celebrate the milestones, and enjoy watching your baby discover the joy of eating.