Five signs that show your child is ready for solids
Do you think your baby is ready for weaning? We bring you signs that show that he or she is ready to move on to solids.
The recommended age for children to start having solid food is six months.
Yet, as a parent, it's also important to also look out for signs that will show you that your young one is ready to eat solid food.
Starting them too early might harm their health, as their immune system and digestive system might not be developed enough. It may also cause them to develop allergies.
However, if they start eating when they are ready, eating will be much more fun.
We take a look at some of the signs your baby might show you when they are ready to eat solids:
- When a child is not ready to eat, you may see them pushing away the food from their mouth. One of the first things that can tell you your child is ready to eat is if they have lost the tongue-thrust reflex - when they don't automatically push solids out of their mouth.
- If your child shows interest in food and they can grab it and put it in their mouth all by themselves, it might be a sign that they are ready to eat.
- Look out for chewing motions. Even though your child won't need to chew food in the beginning, they do however need to be able to move food to the back of her mouth and swallow.
- Another sign is when your child sits well when supported. They need to do this in order to swallow well.
- An increasing appetite may be a sign that your baby is ready to eat, especially if they are still hungry after being breastfed or bottle-fed.
Even if your baby shows all the above signs, if they are not yet six months, it is advisable that you talk to your doctor before you start weaning.
Also read: How to make your own baby food