Sometimes families are so excited to start first foods that they begin too early (without knowing all the signs of readiness for starting solids). 

What feeding specialists want you to know: If your baby was born early you can start solids at their adjusted age of 6 months. You can figure out the adjusted age by subtracting the number of weeks a baby was born early from the baby’s chronological age (e.g., a 6-month-old baby born 4 weeks early has an adjusted age of 5 months). With this example, if we wait to start solids for another month (when the baby’s adjusted age is 6 months old), we may find the baby to be more active, interested and willing to eat than he would have been 4 weeks earlier. 

When can you start solids safely? From birth to six months, baby is exclusively fed breast milk or formula. When baby is 6 months and showing all the signs of readiness, you can safely start solids with purees (using our Baby-led™ Tiny Spoon ) and/or baby-led strips of food.

What are the signs of readiness? As you prepare to offer solids as a complement to breast-feeding or formula-feeding, there are several signs you need to observe.

1. Is baby six months of age?
2. Can baby sit up on their own without losing their balance?
3. Does baby reach for and grasp objects?
4. Does baby bring their hand, objects or food to their mouth?
5. Does baby have the head control to look up, down and to both sides without falling forward?
6. Does baby have an interest in food?

If your baby isn't showing the above signs of readiness, check out  Preparing for Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) for some tips. Remember, each baby's path to solids is unique. Waiting for the right signs and using the right products can ensure a smoother, more successful transition to solid foods.