Is my baby ready for solids? signs & safe introduction
Feb 19, 2025
As a midwife and mother of four, I found that families often felt overwhelmed when it came to starting solids. One of the most common questions parents ask is, "How do I know when my baby is ready for food?"
Introducing solids at the right time is an important milestone in your baby’s development. Starting too early can increase the risk of digestive issues while waiting too long can mean missed opportunities for sensory and oral development. The goal of this blog is to help you identify the signs that your baby is ready and guide you through a safe and simple introduction to solids.
Signs of readiness for starting solids
Before introducing solids, it’s important to watch for developmental milestones rather than focusing solely on age. It is generally recommended to wait until your baby is six months old to start solids, however every baby is different, so it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider. Here are the key signs to look for to know your baby is ready:
Developmental Milestones
Age – Most babies are ready for solids around six months, but readiness signs are more important than age alone.
Head and neck control – Baby should be able to sit up and hold their head steady without bobbing.
Sitting upright – Your baby should be able to sit upright in a highchair or with minimal assistance.
Interest in food – If your baby watches you eat, reaches for your food, or opens their mouth when food is offered, they may be ready for solids. However, on it’s own this isn’t a sign of readiness. Developmentally most babies will mimic your movements from around four months of age.
Other Important Considerations
Disappearance of the tongue-thrust reflex – This reflex (which causes babies to push food out of their mouth) should be fading before solids begin.
Ability to chew and swallow – Your baby should be able to move food around their mouth and swallow rather than pushing it straight out.
If your baby is showing these signs, it may be time to start solids!
Introducing solids
Starting solids should be simple, fun and stress-free. Follow these steps to make the transition smooth:
Step 1: Start with one food at a time to see how your baby tolerates solids. Great first foods include sweet potato, avocado, pumpkin, apple, pear, banana, soft-cooked meat and lentils.
Step 2: Start with thin purees and gradually thicken the texture as your baby gets used to eating. Over time, transition from mashed to finely chopped foods. This is where the b.box fill + feed will come in handy!
Step 3: Use a soft, shallow spoon and offer small amounts. Observe baby’s cues, if they turn away or push food out, they might not be ready for more. Let them explore textures with their hands (yes, it’s messy, but it’s all part of the learning process!).
Safe Practices: Foods to Aviod
Some foods are best avoided in the early stages due to choking risks or potential harm.
Foods to Avoid for Babies Under 12 Months
Honey – Risk of botulism
Whole Nuts and Hard Foods – Choking hazard
Cow’s Milk as a drink – Stick to breastmilk/formula as their main source of nutrition. Cows milk as a drink can be introduced after 6 months.
Added Salt and Sugar – Their kidneys aren’t ready for excess sodium, and sugar can create poor eating habits
Uncooked Eggs and Unpasteurized Dairy – Risk of bacterial infection
Following safe food guidelines will help ensure a smooth and safe transition to solids.
Early Stages of Solids: Fill + Feed & Fill + Freeze
Introducing solids can feel overwhelming, but having the right tools like the b.box fill + feed range makes it easier and more convenient.
Fill + Feed
Perfect for offering small amounts of purees while observing your baby’s intake.
Easy to use at home or on the go, with a mess-free design.
Fill + Freeze
Ideal for batch-prepping purees and storing single-ingredient foods.
Helps reduce food waste and makes meal prep more efficient.
These products are a game-changer for parents starting their solids journey, offering convenience without compromising on fresh, homemade meals.
Transitioning to Self-Feeding: Silicone Fresh Food Feeder
As your baby gains confidence with solids, they’ll want to explore textures and flavours independently. The Silicone Fresh Food Feeder is perfect for this stage.
It allows babies to hold and self-feed while reducing the risk of choking and is great for soft fruits, vegetables, and other easily mashed foods. The silicone fresh food feeder encourages grip strength and sensory exploration while giving parents peace of mind. It is gentle bridge between spoon-fed purees and independent eating.
Weaning: 2-in-1 Suction Plate & Suction Plate + Lid
As babies become more comfortable with eating, they need practical tools to help them transition to more independent mealtimes.
2-in-1 Suction Plate
Strong suction base prevents spills and mess.
Ideal for finger foods as babies develop their pincer grip.
Suction Plate + Lid
Perfect for leftovers or meal prepping, just pop the lid on and store it for later.
Helps support routine and consistency as babies become familiar with mealtimes.
These products grow with your baby, making the weaning process easier and less messy for everyone. Here is our new rnage of bundles perfect for baby & toddlers.
A Quick Recap
Starting solids is an exciting milestone, and every baby will take to it at their own pace. The most important thing is to follow your baby’s cues, introduce foods safely, and make mealtimes a positive experience. So get creative with our b.box weaning essential products and make starting solids fun!
For personalised guidance, always check in with your paediatrician or healthcare provider if you have concerns about your baby’s readiness for solids.
Written by Lauren Brenton
Endorsed Midwife & Founder, One Mama Midwife Pty Ltd