Baby’s First Foods: What to Introduce and When (With Sample Schedule)

Baby First Foods Guide | What to Introduce & When to Start Solids

Learn when and how to start solid foods with your baby. Discover best first foods, signs of readiness, and a sample feeding schedule.

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👶 Introduction: Starting Solids with Confidence

Introducing solid foods is a big step in your baby’s development—and it’s exciting for both of you! But when exactly should you start? What foods are best? And how much should they eat?

This guide walks you through what to feed, when to feed, and how to safely introduce solids—plus a free printable first foods tracker at the end.

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🕒 When to Start: Signs Your Baby Is Ready for Solids

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends introducing solids around 6 months of age. But more importantly, look for these readiness signs:

• Sits up with minimal support

• Good head and neck control

• Opens mouth when food approaches

• Loss of tongue-thrust reflex (doesn’t push food out)

• Shows interest in your food

Tip: Always check with your pediatrician before starting solids.

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🥄 Best First Foods for Babies

Choose soft, single-ingredient foods that are easy to digest and unlikely to cause allergies.

Purees or Mashed:

• Avocado

• Banana

• Sweet potato

• Carrots

• Pears

• Applesauce

• Butternut squash

• Green peas

Baby-Led Weaning (Soft Finger Foods):

• Steamed broccoli florets

• Soft-cooked carrot sticks

• Toast strips with mashed avocado

• Slices of ripe banana

• Soft scrambled eggs (after 6 months)

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⚠️ Foods to Avoid Early On

• Honey (risk of botulism, not before 12 months)

• Cow’s milk as a drink (can be added to recipes after 6 months)

• Choking hazards: whole grapes, popcorn, raw carrots, hard fruits

• Sugary, salty, or processed foods

• Juice (not recommended under 1 year)

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📅 Sample Baby Feeding Schedule (6–8 Months)

Start with 1 meal a day, then increase to 2–3 as baby shows interest.

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🍽️ How to Introduce New Foods Safely

• Introduce one new food every 3–5 days

• Watch for allergic reactions: rash, vomiting, diarrhea, swelling

• Offer a variety of textures and flavors over time

• Follow your baby’s cues—never force feed

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💡 Pro Tip: Make Mealtime Fun

Let your baby explore textures with their hands
Use colorful bowls or utensils
Stay calm and patient—this is a learning process!

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📥 Free Download: First Foods Tracker (Printable)

🍼 Download your FREE Baby First Foods Tracker – Track what you’ve introduced, baby’s reactions, and plan meals with confidence.