Starting solids is a gradual learning process, not a race to finish a particular food list. Many babies are ready around six months, but readiness depends on development. Look for signs such as being able to sit with support, good head control, and an ability to bring food toward the mouth. Discuss timing with your baby's healthcare professional, especially if your child was born prematurely or has a medical condition.
Offer age-appropriate textures and shapes, and make sure your baby is upright and closely supervised while eating. Avoid foods that present a choking risk, and learn the difference between gagging and choking from a reliable pediatric first-aid resource. Babies should not be fed while lying down, moving in a vehicle, or distracted. Keep the meal calm and let your baby explore at their own pace.
Introduce common allergenic foods in forms that are safe for your baby's age, following current local guidance and your clinician's advice. Never give whole nuts or thick spoonfuls of nut butter to an infant. Breast milk or infant formula remains an important source of nutrition during the transition to solids. A few tastes, spills, and uncertain expressions are normal. If you have concerns about growth, swallowing, allergies, or feeding skills, contact a qualified healthcare professional rather than changing the plan based on online anecdotes.