Where Do I Even Start With Solids? Your Top Questions, Answered by Experts

Starting solids can be an exciting time, but if we are honest, it brings along a few nerves too. The pediatrician says to start at 4 months, but then this reel on Instagram says never before 6. This article says go with BLW. What to feed first? Are they even ready? And what about allergens? Every parent has questions. That’s why we built a page that pulls all your most-asked questions, and answers, from a trusted team of pediatricians and nutritionists.

Instead of relying on late-night Google rabbit holes or crowd-sourcing answers from 20 different sources, we built something better:

→ A brand new Getting Started page that answers the top questions parents ask about feeding their baby, from signs of readiness to allergens, mealtime struggles, and more.

Why did we build this page?

You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered:

• "Is my baby really ready for solids?"

• "How do I even start with allergens?"

• "Do I have to choose between purees or baby-led weaning?"
  
  

We heard these questions so often, we decided to ask our dream team of pediatricians, dietitians, and feeding specialists to each answer some one of the most common questions families face in the first months of starting solids. Their advice is grounded in research, but delivered with heart, so you can feel confident, not confused.

•  No judgment.

• No endless scrolling.

• Just honest answers, backed by science and empathy.

What you’ll find inside

Our new Getting Started page includes:

•  27 expert-answered questions, grouped into the 10 biggest concerns parents have when starting solids

• Links to trusted resources for when you want to dive deeper into specific topics

•  Tips and takeaways to help you feel more confident, calm, and clear in your feeding choices

• Access to more information about our app, for when you're ready for step-by-step support at your fingertips

Whether you're curious, cautious, or completely overwhelmed, this page is designed to meet you exactly where you are, with clarity, empathy, and zero pressure.

A Peek Inside: Real Expert Answers to Real Parent Questions

1. Here are just a few of the expert-backed answers you’ll find on the page:When should I actually start solids?

Dr. Timothy Benik, DO – Pediatrician

“There’s no one-size-fits-all date. Most babies are ready around 6 months, but some may show signs earlier. What matters most is watching your baby, not the calendar.”

2. What are the signs my baby is ready to eat?

Catharine Seiler, RD – Pediatric Dietitian

“Look for curiosity! If your baby watches you eat with wide eyes, leans forward toward food, or opens their mouth when offered a spoon, they may be ready.” 

3. How much - and how often - should I feed my baby?

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD – Pediatrician

“Start small and simple. One solid meal a day is plenty at first. As baby grows, increase gradually, but always follow their cues.”

4. Should I do parent-led spoon feeding or baby-led weaning?

Lauren Remondino, M.Ed., CCC-SLP, IBCLC – Pediatric Feeding Specialist

“You can do both! The goal is a positive, responsive feeding experience. You don’t have to choose one method over the other.”

She also offers gentle ways to move from purées to real textures, like fork-mashed foods, meltable solids, and flavor gnawers like mango pits.

5. What if my baby refuses to eat?

Dr. Irini Kolaitis, MD – Pediatrician

“Food refusal is common, and usually temporary. Teething, distraction, or just not being hungry can all play a role.”

6. How do I safely introduce allergens?

Dr. Taylor Lin, MD – Pediatrician

“Early introduction (around 6 months) can help reduce allergy risk. Start with a small amount, watch closely, and if all goes well, keep that food in rotation.”

Meet the Experts Behind the Advice

Our answers come from real pediatric professionals who’ve supported thousands of families:

Dr. Taylor Lin, MD - Pediatric Allergist
Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD - Pediatrician
Dr. Timothy Benik, DO - Pediatrician
Jenny Janov, RD - Pediatric Dietitian
Lauren Remondino, M. Ed. CCC-SLP, IBCLC - Pediatric Feeding Therapist
Catharine Seiler, RD - Pediatric Dietitian
Dr. Irini Kolaitis, MD - Pediatrician

These aren’t vague internet tips, they’re trusted answers from real experts who care about what’s best for your baby.

You’ve Got This 💛

Starting solids is a journey, not a sprint. With expert guidance and a little curiosity, you can build a feeding relationship that supports your baby’s development, and your peace of mind. There’s no perfect way to feed, just the way that works for your baby, your family, and your rhythm!