Starting Solids: A New Chapter in Your Baby’s Feeding Journey 🥄
Introducing your baby to solids is an exciting milestone for both of you! It’s a time for new tastes, textures, and the inevitable messes that come with it. But as your baby reaches the six-month mark, it’s time to introduce them to new foods to complement their milk diet.
For the first six months, your baby relies on iron stores from the womb and breast milk or formula. But as those iron stores begin to deplete, solids are needed to boost their nutrition.
It’s recommended to continue breastfeeding or bottle-feeding alongside solids until your baby is 12 months old. Solids at this stage complement, rather than replace, their milk feeds. You can also start offering small amounts of water after six months, either in a sippy cup or with meals, to help your baby stay hydrated as they transition to solids.
Signs Your Baby Might Be Ready for Solids
Here are some signs to watch for that indicate your little one is ready to start eating solids:
- They seem hungry after milk feeds
- Can sit up with support and hold their head steady
- Show interest in your food, possibly reaching out or opening their mouth
- Make chewing motions when they see food
- Open their mouth when a spoon comes near
Baby’s First Taste: Making Mealtimes Memorable 💛
Starting solids can be an exciting and slightly messy adventure! You can begin with simple, iron-rich foods to complement their milk diet, such as:
- Iron-fortified rice cereal mixed with breast milk or formula
- Purées of cooked vegetables like pumpkin, kūmara, or carrot
- Mashed avocado – easy to prepare and great for baby’s first tastes
- Purée of cooked apple or pear – mild, easy-to-digest options
- Purée of cooked chicken or beef – an excellent way to introduce iron
A fantastic way to offer baby their first tastes is with the b.box Silicone Fresh Food Feeder. Simply pop in soft fruits or steamed vegetables, and let baby explore with a self-feeding method that doubles as teething relief.
Make Mealtimes Easier with the Right Tools
The right tools can make the journey into solids so much easier – and a little less messy! The Zazi Clever Spoon Set is designed for tiny hands, and paired with the Clever Bowl with Lid, they're perfect for portioning, feeding, and storing leftovers. The b.box Roll + Go Mealtime Mat keeps the mess contained, while the classic Mum2Mum Wonder Bib or the Mum2Mum Sleeved Wonder Bib makes sure your baby’s outfit stays clean, even on the messiest of days. After all, less laundry means more cuddle time!
Moving to Mash
As your baby approaches seven months, they’ll likely be ready to try foods with a thicker consistency. Offer them mashed or fork-mashed foods like ripe banana, avocado, small pasta pieces, or cooked egg. These textures are easy for your baby to swallow and great for practicing chewing. At this stage, avoid harder lumps like whole peas, which can pose a choking risk.
Embracing Independence Around 8 Months
Around eight months, your baby may begin showing an interest in feeding themselves. They may grab the spoon and try to feed themselves – it’s messy, but it’s also a great opportunity for developing their hand-eye coordination. Give them a chance to explore, but always stay close by to offer a helping hand (and a napkin)!
We’re Here to Help
At Dimples, we know starting solids can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re always here to support you with expert advice and product recommendations. Visit us in-store or contact our friendly team for any questions – we’ve got everything you need to make this adventure as fun and easy as possible.
