Starting solids
When to start, first foods, and choking safety
When to get help: fever, breathing, feeding and other warning signs. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
When
- Around 6 months, not before 4 months. Signs of readiness: sits with support and holds the head steady, opens the mouth for food, and no longer pushes food out with the tongue.
- Breast milk or formula stays the main drink until 12 months.
First foods
- Start with iron-rich foods: iron-fortified cereal, meat, fish, eggs, beans and lentils. Then add vegetables, fruit and grains.
- Offer common allergy foods (like peanut in a safe form, and egg) early and often, around 6 months. If your baby has severe eczema or a known allergy, ask your doctor first.
- Small sips of water in an open cup with meals from about 6 months.
Not before 1 year
- Honey (risk of botulism), cow’s milk as a main drink, added salt and sugar.
Choking safety
- Always sit your baby upright and stay with them while they eat.
- No whole nuts, whole grapes or cherry tomatoes (cut in quarters lengthwise), popcorn, hard raw vegetables, or round hard pieces.
- Gagging is normal while learning. Choking is silent: learn infant first aid.
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org)
- World Health Organization
- Canadian Paediatric Society (Caring for Kids)
General information for most babies, not medical advice. Your doctor, nurse or midwife knows your baby: always ask them, and call your local emergency number in an emergency.