Readiness to Start Solid Food

Maya, 5 months of age, shows one readiness sign: steady control of her head

Around 6 months of age, most babies are developmentally ready to start solids, but how do you know for sure? Learn the signs from Solid Starts—a multidisciplinary team of pediatric pros helping you raise a happy eater.

Need help starting solids? The Solid Starts App can help you navigate first bites and beyond. Learn more.

When can my baby start eating solid food?

Introduce solids as soon as baby shows all of the signs that they are developmentally ready to practice eating real food.^{1 2} Most full-term babies are ready around 6 months of age, though some are ready a bit earlier and some a few weeks later.³ For premature babies, look for signs of readiness around 6 months chronological age.

You may be told to introduce rice cereal and purees around 4 months of age, but this is outdated advice. While recommendations vary from country to country, both the American Academy of Pediatrics and World Health Organization agree that around 6 months of age is the ideal time to introduce solid foods.