6-Month Baby Food Guide: Starting Solids
At 6 months, your baby is ready for an exciting new chapter—solid foods! This milestone marks the beginning of a lifelong relationship with food. Every spoonful is a step toward growth, health, and discovery.
1. Is Your Baby Ready for Solids?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend starting solid foods around 6 months of age. However, every baby develops at their own pace. Look for these readiness signs:
- Can hold their head up steadily
- Can sit with support
- Shows interest in food when others are eating
- Reaches for food or opens mouth when food approaches
- Tongue-thrust reflex has diminished (doesn't push food out immediately)
If your baby shows 3 or more of these signs, they may be ready to start solids. When in doubt, consult your pediatrician at your next well-baby visit.
2. First Foods: What to Start With
The most common and safest first food is single-grain infant cereal, particularly rice cereal or oatmeal. These are easy to digest, unlikely to cause allergic reactions, and have a mild flavor that babies accept well.
How to Make Rice Cereal (10:1 Porridge)
- Wash 1 tablespoon of rice thoroughly and soak for at least 30 minutes
- Add 10 tablespoons of water (1:10 rice-to-water ratio) and bring to a boil
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes until very soft
- Strain through a fine mesh strainer or blend until completely smooth
- Start with a very thin, runny consistency—thicken gradually as baby adjusts
* You can also use store-bought iron-fortified infant cereal mixed with breast milk or formula for added nutrition and familiar taste.
3. 6-Month Feeding Schedule
Start with once a day, in small amounts during the first two weeks. As your baby adjusts, gradually increase the quantity.
| Week | Frequency | Amount | Consistency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Once daily | 1-2 teaspoons | Very thin (runny) |
| Week 2 | Once daily | 1-2 tablespoons | Thin puree |
| Week 3-4 | 1-2 times daily | 2-4 tablespoons | Smooth puree |
4. Safe First Foods for 6 Months
Once your baby has adjusted to rice cereal, you can introduce other foods. Introduce one new food at a time, waiting 3-5 days before adding another to watch for allergic reactions.
Recommended First Foods (Low Allergy Risk)
- Grains: Rice, oatmeal, barley
- Vegetables: Sweet potato, squash, peas, green beans, carrots
- Fruits: Avocado, banana, applesauce, pears (in small amounts)
Foods to Avoid Until Age 1
- Honey — Risk of infant botulism
- Cow's milk as main drink — Use breast milk or formula
- Added salt or sugar — Baby's kidneys can't handle excess sodium
- Whole nuts and large chunks — Choking hazard
- Unpasteurized foods — Risk of harmful bacteria
* Note: The AAP now recommends introducing common allergens (peanuts, eggs, fish) early, around 6 months, to potentially reduce allergy risk. Consult your pediatrician for guidance.
5. Timing & Breast Milk/Formula
The best time to offer solids is mid-morning (around 10-11 AM). If an allergic reaction occurs, you'll have time to seek medical attention during daytime hours.
At 6 months, breast milk or formula remains the primary source of nutrition. Solid foods are complementary—they don't replace milk feeds. Continue nursing or offering formula (24-32 oz per day) while introducing solids.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q. My baby spits out the food. Is this normal?
Yes, completely normal! Babies need time to learn how to move food from the front of their mouth to the back for swallowing. The tongue-thrust reflex may still be present. Don't force feeding—take a break and try again in a few days.
Q. My baby's poop changed. Should I worry?
Changes in stool color, consistency, and frequency are expected when starting solids. Your baby's digestive system is adapting to new foods. Ensure adequate hydration, and consult your pediatrician if constipation or diarrhea persists beyond 2-3 days.
Q. Homemade vs. store-bought baby food?
Both are perfectly acceptable. Homemade food gives you control over ingredients and freshness. Store-bought options are convenient and often fortified with essential nutrients like iron. Many parents successfully combine both based on their schedule and preferences.
7. Essential Baby Feeding Supplies
Having the right tools makes feeding time easier and safer for both you and baby.
- Baby food maker/blender: For pureeing homemade foods
- Freezer storage trays: Portion and freeze homemade purees
- Soft-tip spoons: Gentle on baby's gums
- Suction bowls: Stay in place when baby gets grabby
- Bibs with catch pocket: Waterproof, easy clean-up
- High chair: Secure seating with proper support
* This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician for decisions about your baby's health and nutrition.