Starting Solids & Baby-Led Weaning Guide

1. When to Start Solids? (Readiness Signs)

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology (ESPGHAN) recommend starting solid foods around 6 months of age (not before 17 weeks and not later than 26 weeks). Look for all 4 developmental readiness signs:

• 1. Sitting with minimal support: Baby can hold their head steady and upright without slumping.
• 2. Loss of the tongue-thrust reflex: Baby no longer pushes food automatically out of their mouth with their tongue.
• 3. Coordinated hand-to-mouth movement: Baby can grasp food or toys and accurately bring them to their mouth.
• 4. Genuine food curiosity: Reaching for food on your plate and intently watching you eat.

2. Traditional Purees vs. Baby-Led Weaning (BLW)

3. Introducing The Top Allergenic Foods (Modern Guidelines)

Outdated advice suggested delaying allergens. Modern evidence shows that early introduction of common food allergens around 6 months prevents food allergies:

• Top Allergens: Well-cooked egg, peanut butter (thinned with warm water or puree — never whole peanuts!), cow's milk products (yogurt/cheese), fish, shellfish, soy, wheat (gluten), and tree nuts (nut butters).
• Rules of Introduction: Introduce one new allergen at a time in the morning on an empty skin day. Offer a tiny amount first, observe for 2 hours, and keep offering regularly 2–3 times a week to maintain tolerance.