{"id":60477,"date":"2025-09-19T19:29:14","date_gmt":"2025-09-19T19:29:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.firstthingsfirst.org\/?post_type=first-things&p=60477"},"modified":"2026-02-04T22:39:03","modified_gmt":"2026-02-04T22:39:03","slug":"starting-solids","status":"publish","type":"first-things","link":"https:\/\/www.firstthingsfirst.org\/es\/first-things\/starting-solids\/","title":{"rendered":"Baby Proof: Starting solids\u2014baby-led weaning vs purees explained"},"content":{"rendered":"

So you\u2019ve got the milk thing down, but what comes after that? If your baby is showing certain <\/span>developmental signs<\/a>, they might be ready to start solids. Like most parts of raising a child, there\u2019s no one answer for starting solids.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is baby-led weaning (BLW) vs spoon-feeding?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n

While both are methods of introducing solid foods, baby-led weaning allows your baby to take the lead in feeding, while spoon-feeding relies on the caregiver\u2019s control.<\/span><\/p>\n

In short, all feeding methods have their own advantages and risks. Your positivity and encouragement go a long way in this new stage, and with the right preparation, you can create a safe environment for introducing solid foods.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

But first, let\u2019s talk about timing\u2014the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusively breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life. Bottle feeding is another option. Typically around 6 months, check for the following signs of readiness before you introduce solid foods. <\/span><\/p>\n

Signs your baby is ready:<\/p>\n

Can your baby hold their head up?<\/p>\n

Can they sit with minimal support?<\/p>\n

Do they bring objects or food to their mouth?<\/p>\n

Do they seem interested in eating? (Watching you eat, leaning forward or opening their mouth for food)<\/p>\n

Every child\u2019s development looks different, so don\u2019t feel pressured to start solids right at the 6-month mark. Starting solids is a slow process, and your baby will still get most of their nutrition from breast milk, formula or both for a while.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"A<\/p>\n

How do I start giving my baby food?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n

Your baby is used to the taste and texture of milk, so start small with something soft and easy to swallow\u2014purees or soft finger foods. Most families take a blended approach.<\/span><\/p>\n

Baby-led weaning:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n