When to Begin Solid Foods: The 4–6 Month Window

Johané
Jul 17
3 min read

Solid foods can generally be introduced to babies between the ages of 4 to 6 months, depending on their developmental readiness. According to Weaning Sense by Meg Faure and Kath Megaw, signs that a baby is ready include good head control, showing interest in food, and the ability to sit with support.

Starting solids within this 4 - 6 month window not only supports nutritional needs (like increased iron requirements), but may also reduce the risk of allergies and picky eating later on. It's important to follow your baby's cues and begin with soft, nutrient-rich foods such as mashed vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats. While the World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for six months, Weaning Sense highlights that in well-resourced settings, infants can safely begin semi-solids between 4 and 6 months.

“When a baby should start solids has been a trend‑driven parameter… there is no science that points to an exact week in which a baby should start solids. It’s a personal journey within broad guidelines.”

The authors introduce the concept of COLLAB weaning, balancing key infant cues with scientific guidance: “COLLAB is an acronym… Cues, Own Person, Low Pressure, Led by Science, Age Appropriate and Baby Friendly.” They also affirm, “between four and six months of age has been shown to decrease the risk of allergies developing as well as prevent picky eating later”

Recognizing Readiness: Watch for Signs

Before starting solids, infants typically show:

Head control and ability to sit with support
A diminished tongue-thrust reflex
Curiosity in family food at mealtimes
Seeming unsatisfied after milk feeds

These developmental cues are the essence of the “C” in COLLAB, ensuring readiness aligns with individual growth.

Choosing First Foods: Real, Whole, and Balanced

Faure and Megaw encourage beginning with whole fruits and vegetables plus healthy fats, instead of baby cereals: “Make wholesome foods at home that are nutritionally more like breast milk than processed cereals.”

Their top recommendations include:

Orange-vegetable mash (butternut, carrot, squash)
Mashed banana, apple, or pear
Soft vegetable florets like cauliflower or broccoli

These early foods promote fiber, healthy fats, and balanced nutrition akin to breast milk.

When starting weaning, it’s important to avoid certain foods that may pose health or choking risks for infants. According to Weaning Sense, avoid honey (due to the risk of infant botulism), added salt and sugar, and processed foods. Whole nuts, popcorn, raw carrots, and grapes should also be avoided in their whole form as they are choking hazards. Additionally, cow’s milk should not replace breast milk or formula before one year, although small amounts can be used in cooking. Early weaning should focus on fresh, whole, and age-appropriate foods.

Allergens and Texture: Early and Welcome

Contrary to outdated advice, the book says: “The latest allergy research shows that offering protein and/or high‑risk allergen foods early… is not only safe but can also prevent the child from developing an allergy…”

Texture variety is also essential: “Babies should be exposed to a variety of textures and foods… to avoid picky eating later.” Hence, starting with soft mashed foods and gradually introducing more textured options supports sensory development.

Feeding Approaches: Spoon, Shared, and Sensory

Weaning Sense supports a hybrid method:

Begin with spoon-feeding and allow tasting
Progress towards baby-led weaning - encouraging self-feeding as motor skills develop

The “Two Bowl Approach” is recommended. It's a shared experience where baby has mashed food while you enjoy whole textures in your bowl; supporting social connection and stillness in exploration. “A social aspect of feeding… by keeping both parties engaged.”

Role of Fats & Hydration

Healthy fats (like avocado, olive oil, coconut, or nut butter), enhance flavour and nutrition: “Within the first month of starting your baby on solids, you can… mix in a bit of fat.” Offer small sips of water (approximately 10–30 ml) when introducing proteins like eggs or meat to support digestion and kidney function.

Summarising the Essentials

Here’s a quick reference chart based on Weaning Sense:

Key Principle	Recommendation
Age	4–6 months (watch readiness cues)
First Foods	Whole veg & fruit plus healthy fats
Allergens	Introduce early over 3–4 days
Texture	Start smooth → progress to mash/finger food
Approach	Spoon + Two Bowl + Baby-led feeding
Hydration	Water with protein-rich meals

Why It Matters

Informed weaning supports:

Nutritional health: timely iron intake and balanced diet
Sensory development: exposure reduces fussiness
Parental confidence: low-pressure, child-led methods foster calm mealtimes

Final Thoughts

Weaning Sense guides parents through a gentle yet scientifically sound approach - from when infants show readiness to introducing nutrient-rich, varied foods. By blending evidence-based strategies with responsive feeding, you empower your child to explore and enjoy food, setting a foundation for a lifetime of healthy eating habits.

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