Start with single-ingredient purees at around 6 months

Begin offering single-ingredient purees when your baby shows signs of readiness, typically around 6 months of age. The AAP and WHO both recommend exclusive breastfeeding or formula for the first 6 months, then introducing complementary foods while continuing milk feeds.

Signs of Readiness

• Sits upright with minimal support and has good head control
• Shows interest in food (watches you eat, reaches for food, opens mouth)
• Has lost the tongue-thrust reflex (no longer pushes food out automatically)
• Can move food to the back of the mouth and swallow

How to Start

1. Choose a single-ingredient food: Iron-fortified infant cereal, pureed sweet potato, avocado, banana, or peas are common first foods.
2. Offer 1-2 teaspoons: Mix puree with breast milk or formula to a thin, smooth consistency.
3. Wait 3-5 days before introducing the next new food to watch for allergic reactions (rash, vomiting, diarrhea).
4. Gradually thicken texture as baby accepts thin purees.

Tips

• Feed when baby is calm and slightly hungry, not overtired or starving
• Let baby set the pace; never force food into the mouth
• Breast milk or formula remains the primary nutrition source until 12 months