When to Start Introducing Solid Foods?

Complementary Feeding — When and How to Start

In summary: The WHO recommends starting complementary feeding from 6 months onwards. There's no single "right" way to do it — both purees and BLW (baby-led weaning) are valid options.

Signs that your baby is ready (ALL must be present)

• Sits up with minimal support
• Good head and neck control
• The extrusion reflex has disappeared (doesn't push food out with their tongue)
• Shows genuine interest in food (reaches for it, opens their mouth)
• Can bring objects to their mouth

BLW vs Purees — Honest Comparison

First foods to try

BLW: Avocado strips, steamed broccoli, ripe banana, sweet potato sticks Purees: Sweet potato, squash, pear, carrot

Golden rules (both methods)

1. One new food at a time (wait 3-4 days)
2. No honey until 12 months
3. No added salt or sugar
4. Milk is still the main food — solids are complementary

What other moms say

"I was going to do BLW strictly, but my son didn't want to grab anything for weeks. I started with purees and he moved to chunks on his own. Do what works for YOUR baby."

This information does not replace medical advice.