Expert-Backed Answers for Every Stage of Starting Solids

We took the most common starting solids questions to our experts. Their answers? All here. Clear. Trustworthy. No endless searches.

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Meet the Experts Behind the Answers

These aren’t just tips, they’re answers from pediatricians, nutritionists, and feeding therapists who’ve helped hundreds of families navigate starting solids with confidence. Meet our trusted team of advisors.

When to Begin


What is the recommended age to start solids for babies?

What is the recommended age to start solids for babies?

Dr. Timothy Benik, DO - Pediatrician

There’s a lot of noise out there when it comes to when to start solids, and trust us, you’re not the only one feeling unsure. Here’s what the science (and the experts) say:

The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) and WHO (World Health Organization) recommend exclusive breastfeeding (when possible) for the first 6 months. Solid foods should be introduced no later than 6 months, as that’s when most babies are developmentally ready.

By around 6 months, most babies:

  • Can sit up with minimal support.
  • Open their mouths when food approaches.
  • Have the jaw and tongue coordination needed to move food towards the back of the mouth.

Early feeding, before 3 months, is not recommended. Before this age, the digestive system simply isn’t mature enough to handle food, and it can lead to issues with nutrient absorption.

Here’s where things get more flexible, and where your baby’s individual readiness comes into play: Between 4–6 months, some babies may be ready for solids before the 6 month mark. Factors like doubling birthweight by 4 months, sitting up on their own with minimal assistance, and showing interest in food (like watching you eat with serious curiosity!) can all signal that baby might be ready.

💡 Bébé Foodie takeaway: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Most babies are ready around 6 months, but some may be ready a little earlier. The key is to watch your baby, talk to your pediatrician if you’re unsure, and move forward with confidence—no guilt, no pressure.

Can starting solids too early cause digestive issues?

What is the recommended age to start solids for babies?

Dr. Timothy Benik, DO - Pediatrician

Starting solids too early, especially before 4 months, can lead to digestive issues because your baby’s gastrointestinal tract isn’t mature enough yet. The gut may struggle to properly digest and absorb nutrients.

When the body can’t absorb what it needs from food, this is known as malabsorption. Malabsorption can cause a range of symptoms, including:

  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Foul-smelling stool
  • Abdominal bloating or distention
  • Slow linear growth
  • Poor weight gain

💡 Bébé Foodie takeaway: Every baby develops at their own pace, but waiting until your baby is truly ready helps protect their gut, support healthy growth, and set them up for a smoother start with solids.

Even when the timing is right, digestive hiccups can still happen. If your baby seems constipated after starting solids, tap the link below to find out what’s normal, what to watch for, and how to help.

READ OUR GUIDE ON BABY CONSTIPATION AND HOW TO EASE IT

Signs My Baby Is Ready


How do I know if my baby is ready to start solids?

how-do-i-know-if-my-baby-is-ready-to-start-solids-catherine-seiler-expert-answer

Catharine Seiler, RD - Registered Pediatric Dietitian

A baby is usually ready to start solids when they are between ages 4 to 6 months. Most guidelines recommend waiting until closer to 6 months and watching your baby for signs of readiness.

What signs of readiness should I look for?

what-signs-of-readiness-should-i-look-for-catherine-seiler-expert-answer

Catharine Seiler, RD - Registered Pediatric Dietitian

There are a few signs you can look for that will indicate your baby may be ready to start solids. This might look like your baby showing excitement or smiling when you are eating, grabbing at foods, leaning forward towards food, bringing objects or foods to their mouths, and opening their mouth when you offer food.

Another sign is having good head and neck control. Babies should also be able to sit upright independently or with minimal support, ideally in a supportive highchair. These developmental milestones are important for safe swallowing.

Still wondering if your baby is ready?

We’ve got a full guide to help you figure it out

What will I need to get started?

what-will-i-need-to-get-started-jenny-janov-expert-answer

Jenny Janov, MPH, RD - Registered Pediatric Dietitian

Once your baby is showing signs of readiness, you can get going with any favorite foods you have at home - bananas, avocados, sweet potatoes can be mashed, thinned into purees, or used for baby led-weaning. Here’s some other optional gear that may make feeding easier:

  • A supportive seat: A high chair or booster seat help baby to sit safely and comfortably while they are learning to eat. They should sit upright and ideally have foot support.
  • A suction plate or mat: This will allow baby to explore foods given to them and minimize mess elsewhere.
  • Other age-appropriate utensils: soft tipped spoons for trying purees, and easy-to-grip utensils for baby to start practicing, as well as an open and straw cup for baby to start learning to drink water.
  • Other mess-friendly helpers: A bib with a catch pocket and a splash mat under their chair, while optional, can be super helpful.

Feeding Approaches for Starting Solids


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

should-i-do-parent-led-spoon-feeding-or-baby-led-weaning-experts-answer

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD, Dr. Irini Kolaitis MD & Lauren Remondino, M. Ed. CCC-SLP, IBCLC

There’s no one “right” way to feed your baby, just the one that fits your family best. Here’s what to know about the two most common approaches:

Parent-led spoon feeding

  • This method involves the parent or caregiver spoon-feeding purées or soft mashed foods.
  • Offers more control over the pace and quantity of solid food consumed.
  • Can feel more familiar and practical for many families.
  • Helpful when you're short on time or eating on the go.

Baby-led weaning (BLW)

  • This method encourages babies to self-feed soft, graspable pieces of whole foods starting around 6 months.
  • It supports the early development of motor skills, autonomy, and oral motor strength.
  • Baby sets the pace and decides how much to eat.
  • When done safely, does not increase choking risk compared to spoon feeding.
  • Can help support better regulation of hunger and fullness cues.

Can I mix both approaches?

  • This method encourages babies to self-feed soft, graspable pieces of whole foods starting around 6 months.
  • Yes! Many families blend spoon feeding with baby-led weaning.
  • You might spoon-feed one food and offer another for self-feeding, it’s all about flexibility.
  • What matters most is following your baby’s cues and keeping the experience positive.
  • If you start primarily with purées, try to introduce chewable textures by around 9 months to support oral development (if appropriate for your child).

💡 Bébé Foodie takeaway: You don’t have to choose one method forever, or at all. Follow your baby’s lead, stay responsive, and feel confident knowing that both approaches are safe and valid. The best method is the one that keeps mealtimes happy, calm, and connected.

Want help figuring out what works best for your baby? We break down the pros, the myths, and how to mix both approaches confidently.

CLICK HERE TO EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS

What is the combo approach?

what-is-the-combo-approach-experts-answer

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD & Dr. Irini Kolaitis MD - Pediatricians

The "combo" approach, also called the “middle ground” or “flexible method, blends spoon- feeding and self-feeding. You might offer a spoonful of yogurt while placid avocado slices or banana strips on the tray. Some days you will rely more on spoon feeding (especially when you're in a rush or out of the house), and other days your baby may take the lead. It’s not only okay to mix approaches, it’s actually quite common and supported by feeding experts.

Here’s what it might look like in everyday life:

  • Spoon-feeding mashed potatoes while also offering a steamed broccoli floret
  • Pre-loading a spoon with purée and letting your baby grab it and bring it to their mouth. Ex. Offering yogurt on a spoon while placing avocado slices on the tray for self-feeding

This approach gives you the freedom to:

  • Adapt based on your baby’s cues and your daily routine.
  • Switch things up depending on time, setting, or your baby’s interest.
  • Create low-pressure meals that support skill development and connection.

Responsive feeding is the key. Watch your baby’s cues rather than sticking to one method rigidly. When babies are given the chance to self-feed while also being supported with spoon-fed options, they develop feeding skills and confidence at their own pace.

💡 Bébé Foodie takeaway: Feeding your baby doesn’t have to fit into one box. The combo approach offers flexibility, freedom, and fun, while still supporting your baby’s development and your family’s rhythm.

How can I transition my baby from purees to mashed or textured foods?

how-can-i-transition-baby-from-purees-to-mashed-or-textured-foods-experts-answer

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD - Pediatrician & Lauren Remondino, M. Ed. CCC-SLP, IBCLC

Transitioning from purees is a critical step, and we don’t want to linger in smooth-only textures for too long. Research shows that introducing lumpy and textured foods between 6 to 9 months is associated with better acceptance and less picky eating down the line.

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, Pediatrician, recommends these simple steps:

  • Start thickening purees: If you began with watery smooth purees, gradually make them thicker and more textured (think mashed banana or slightly chunky mashed sweet potato).
  • Move to fork-mashed foods: Foods like soft-cooked veggies, ripe fruits, scrambled eggs, or well-cooked lentils can be mashed with a fork to introduce uneven textures.
  • Offer safe soft finger foods: Even if your baby started with purees, you can begin offering soft strips of foods they can grasp (e.g., soft cooked carrots, ripe pear slices, scrambled eggs, toast strips with nut butter).
  • Model chewing: Babies learn by watching! Exaggerate chewing motions and eat with them so they can imitate your mouth movements.
  • Practice patience: Some gagging is normal and part of learning. It’s not the same as choking and is a safety reflex. As long as your baby is upright, supervised and ready, it’s okay to allow a little gagging as they adjust.

Lauren Remondino, Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist, recommends including these food types during the transition:

  • Resistive food teethers: These are firm foods your baby can gnaw on without easily breaking off chunks. Examples include mango pits, pineapple cores, corn cobs (without kernels), or meat bones with most of the meat removed. Use caution if your baby has many teeth, as they may bite off larger pieces.
  • Meltable solids: Foods like teething crackers, puffs, or graham crackers are great during the transition, they offer texture but melt easily in the mouth, making them less challenging to manage.
  • Fork-mashed solids: These are foods that break down easily with a fork, like banana, avocado, ripe berries, or well-cooked veggies. They offer more texture than purées but are still gentle and easy to chew.

💡 Bébé Foodie takeaway: Moving from purées to textured foods doesn’t have to be stressful or sudden. Take it step by step, trust your baby’s readiness, and remember, gagging is normal, exploration is good, and every bite is part of the learning process.

Not sure when to move on from purées? We’ve got simple guidance to help you know when it’s time.

Baby is refusing purées and you're not sure what to do with them?

HERE IS HOW TO TURN PURÉES INTO FINGER FOODS

First Foods to Try


Is it better to start with vegetables or fruits?

is-it-better-to-start-with-vegetables-or-fruits-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD - Pediatrician

You can start with either. There's no strong evidence that starting with vegetables prevents a future sweet tooth. Babies naturally prefer sweet flavors (even breast milk is sweet), so refusing veggies isn’t about what came first, it's about repeated exposure and variety.

Rather than focusing on the order, aim for variety. Offer both fruits and vegetables early on. Repeated exposure (even to foods they initially reject) is what builds acceptance. Don’t worry about that “yuck” face when they first try a food. It does not mean that they dislike it. In fact it can take 10-15 exposures to a food before assuming they don’t like it.

What are good first foods to try in the first month?

what-are-good-first-foods-to-try-starting-solids-experts-answer

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD - Pediatrician & Lauren Remondino, M. Ed. CCC-SLP, IBCLC

Michelle recommends, first foods being soft, safe, and more importantly, foods that you and your family like to eat and make a good photo op (kidding! Kind of!). It is also a good idea to focus on some iron-rich foods(especially for breastfed babies).

Lauren suggests soft fruits and vegetables that are easy to serve in multiple ways so that you can give your little one nutritious foods while also learning what consistency/shape of food they naturally gravitate towards. For example, ripe banana - it can be served whole, in finger/spear shape, pureed or fork mashed.

Here’s a great list of starter options and the Bebe Foodie app can walk you through the first foods step by step.

Iron-rich foods:

  • Iron-fortified baby cereals (oat, barley)
  • Soft cooked lentils, beans, or split peas
  • Ground beef, chicken, turkey, or lamb (cooked and moistened)
  • Egg yolk or whole scrambled eggs
  • Tofu or soft cooked fish (like salmon)

Veggies and fruits:

  • Steamed and mashed carrots, sweet potato, squash, beets
  • Avocado slices or mashed
  • Ripe banana, pear, or mango (mashed or in handheld strips)
  • Cooked apples or peaches

Healthy fats:

  • Nut butters (thinly spread or mixed into cereal/yogurt)
  • Olive oil or butter added to mashed veggies
  • Full-fat plain yogurt (can be spoon-fed or offered on a preloaded spoon)

💡 Bébé Foodie takeaway: The first food you choose to feed does not matter, but consider key nutrients, like iron, and ease of preparation. Offer a variety of foods and textures as you feel comfortable.

Still wondering where to begin? Check out our list of favorite first foods, and what’s best to hold off on for now.

EXPLORE OUR LIST OF FIRST FOODS & WHAT TO AVOID

How should I mix and match foods?

how-can-i-mix-and-match-foods-starting-solids-expert-answers

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD - Pediatrician

Feeding is not just about nutrients, it's also about variety, exposure and sensory exploration.

You can combine foods such as iron rich foods and a fruit/veg such as oatmeal and banana or lentils and carrots. Mix fats and veggies like avocado and olive oil or sweet potato and butter and you can offer multiple textures on the plate such as mashed lentils and soft cooked apple slices.

Keep meals simple at first so you can track how your baby responds to each food. Once the food is tolerated you can start building mini meals with two or three items.

Want inspiration for mini meals and easy combos? Explore our library of meal ideas, plus 400+ more inside the Bébé Foodie app.

CHECK OUT OUR FREE RECIPE LIBRARY

How Much and How Often


How often should I offer first foods to my baby?

how-often-should-offer-first-foods-to-my-baby-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD - Pediatrician

Start with once per day. Ideally, when your baby is alert, happy, and not too hungry (so they can enjoy exploring without frustration). As they become more interested, you can increase gradually.

Typical Schedule:

  • 6-7 months: 1-2 meals per day
  • 8-9 months: 2-3 meals per day
  • 10-12 months: 3 meals and can add in 1-2 snacks.

Some days your baby will eat more, others less. That is normal. The goal is to build feeding skills, not meet daily calorie needs.

What does a sample feeding schedule look like for a 6-7 month old?

what-does-a-sample-feeding-schedule-look-like-for-a-6-7-month-old-expert-answers

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD

Here’s an example that includes solids and milk feeds:

Morning

  • Wake and milk feed (breast or formula)
  • Breakfast solids (oatmeal + banana, or scrambled eggs + avocado)
  • Nap

Midday

  • Milk feed
  • Lunch solids (lentils + mashed sweet potato, or soft tofu + peach slices)
  • Nap

Afternoon

  • Milk feed
  • Nap

Evening

  • Milk Feed

Before bed

  • Final milk feed

💡 Bébé Foodie takeaway: This is flexible! You can work in solid food feeds around an already existing milk and nap schedule. Breastmilk or formula should remain your baby’s main source of nutrition until age one.

Want a full sample schedule? Download our free feeding schedule guide with examples for every age- from 3 to 12 months - to help you navigate solids alongside milk feeds

Download Now

How much food should I offer per meal (spoons, ounces, visuals)?

how-much-food-should-offer-per-meal-starting-solids-expert-answers

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD - Pediatrician

Start small and let your baby guide how much they want. A few spoonfuls go a long way.

Here are some general guidelines:

  • Puree: 1-2 tablespoons (about the size of a golf ball)
  • Avocado slice: about the size of baby’s palm
  • Soft-cooked veggie: a few finger-sized pieces
  • Mashed lentils: 1-2 spoonfuls.

If you are parent-led feeding and your baby leans in or opens their mouth for more, go ahead and offer another bite. If they turn away or clamp their mouth shut, respect that cue. You are not aiming for a clean plate, but rather teaching self-awareness and fostering a positive feeding relationship.

Not sure what “a small portion” really looks like? We created an easy visual guide to show typical serving sizes, by age, spoons, and everyday objects.

VIEW SERVING SIZE GUIDE

Mealtime Safety While Starting Solids


What safety practices should I follow at mealtime?

what-safety-practices-should-i-follow-at-mealtime-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Taylor Lin, MD - Pediatric Allergist & immunologist

Always supervise your baby closely during meals, making sure they are sitting upright in a high chair. Avoid hard, round, or sticky foods, and cut food into small, soft pieces that they can chew. Never stick your finger in their mouth to remove food.

Mealtime safety tips:

  • Always supervise your baby, seat them upright in a high chair, and avoid hard, round, or sticky foods.
  • Cut food into soft, age-appropriate pieces, and never use your finger to remove food from their mouth.

Want to feel more confident about mealtime safety? Explore our full safety guide with key tips on how to serve foods safely from the start.

VIEW THE FOOD SAFETY GUIDE

How do I know if my baby is gagging or choking?

how-do-i-know-if-my-baby-is-gagging-or-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Taylor Lin, MD - Pediatric Allergist & immunologist

Gagging is a normal healthy reflex in typically developing babies to help protect their airway. Gagging is harmless, and babies may gag briefly and then dislodge or spit out their food. When a baby is gagging, they may be red and crying. You should not intervene if your baby is gagging.

Signs your baby is choking include unable to cry or make sounds, coughing, stopping breathing, or their lips or skin turning bright red, pale, or blue. They may appear panicked or make high-pitched sounds. If your child is choking, you need to start first aid with back blows immediately and call 911.

When starting solids, to feel more prepared, consider doing a course in infant CPR.

How do I prepare solid foods for a baby with no teeth?

how-do-i-prepare-solid-foods-for-a-baby-without-teeth-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Taylor Lin, MD - Pediatric Allergist & immunologist

Even without teeth, babies can practice chewing with their gums. Offer soft, easy-to-gum foods like soft cooked mashed vegetables, ripe fruits, or finely shredded soft meats that your baby can mash with their gums. Make sure pieces are small, soft, and not circular enough to avoid choking.

Introducing Allergens


Should I introduce high-allergen foods early or wait?

should-introduce-high-allergen-foods-early-or-wait-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Taylor Lin, MD - Pediatric Allergist & immunologist

Introducing allergenic foods like peanuts, eggs, and dairy early, around 6 months—can actually help reduce the risk of developing food allergies. This is recommended in nearly all infants, unless they have already been diagnosed with a food allergy or have severe eczema. If your baby has these conditions, consult your pediatrician or allergist before introducing these foods.

How do I introduce allergens safely?

how-do-introduce-allergens-safely-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Taylor Lin, MD - Pediatric Allergist & immunologist

Start by offering small amounts and watch closely for any signs of reaction. If no reaction symptoms, you can give more with continued monitoring. Only try one allergen at a time.

Want to discover Dr. Lin’s tips on safely introducing top food allergens to your baby? We’ve got you.

GET DR. LIN’S 6 TIPS

How can I identify if my baby has a food allergy or intolerance?

how-do-identify-if-my-baby-has-food-allergies-or-intolerance-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Taylor Lin, MD - Pediatric Allergist & immunologist

Signs of a food allergy can include hives, swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing that occur quickly after eating a new food.

Food intolerances are typically less severe and may cause gassiness, fussiness, or mild abdominal pain.

Keep a food diary to track what your baby eats and any symptoms that follow, as well as the timing of onset of symptoms. If you notice a consistent reaction, stop offering the food and consult your pediatrician or allergist for guidance and possible allergy testing.

Want to better understand the difference between allergies and intolerances? Dr. Lin breaks it down for you.

READ DR. LIN’S GUIDE

Do I need to wait a certain number of days between new foods?

do-i-need-to-wait-between-new-foods-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Taylor Lin, MD - Pediatric Allergist & immunologist

No, you do not need to wait a certain number of days between foods when introducing new foods. Conventional teaching was to wait 2-3 days between foods to help identify allergy or intolerance, but that is probably unnecessary. Introducing one new food each day in those early days is helpful, but after they are tolerating several different foods and allergens, you can start offering more than one new food a day.

💡 In the Bébé Foodie app, Dr. Lin built a step-by-step allergen timeline to help you safely introduce all major allergens before 12 months. We provide a suggested order and pace, but also give you the flexibility to move faster or adjust based on your baby’s needs.

When Baby Refuses to Eat


What should I do if my baby rejects all solid foods?

what-should-i-do-if-my-baby-rejects-all-solid-foods-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Irini Kolaitis, MD - Pediatrician

Food refusal can be one of the more stressful parts of parenting. While many babies adjust to solid food introduction with ease, some have a harder time with this transition. Refusal can happen for lots of reasons: teething, lack of hunger, illness, or simply not being developmentally ready yet.

The good news? It’s usually just a phase.

Here are a few tips on how to handle solid food refusal:

  • Be Patient: Research shows it can take multiple exposures before a baby eats a new food. So wait a few days and try offering that food again.
  • Time it right: Offer solids when baby is showing hunger cues (like rooting, sucking fingers, or showing interest in food).
  • Respect fullness: If baby throws food or turns their head away, it’s okay to end the meal.
  • Share a meal: Serving what you’re eating helps create interest in a wider variety of foods.
  • Seek Advice: Consult with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby’s growth, they are showing signs of persistent aversions to solid food, ongoing cough or gagging with solids, or significant distress with meals (screaming, crying, back arching, etc.).

💡 Bébé Foodie takeaway Food refusal is normal, can happen for a variety of reasons, and often temporary. Don’t force feeding, follow your baby's lead. Tomorrow is another day!

Need more support? Explore more tips and reassurance in our full article on food refusal.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE

How can I keep mealtimes low-pressure and positive?

how-can-i-keep-mealtimes-low-pressure-and-positive-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Irini Kolaitis, MD - Pediatrician

This is so important! Feeding your baby should be fun and enjoyable for both you and your baby.

Here are a few tips:

  • Embrace the Mess: As with all parenting stages, messy feeding is a phase. Lean into it and allow your baby to have fun playing with their food.
  • Let them lead: Follow your baby’s hunger and fullness cues. You don’t need to force your baby to eat if they aren’t interested. Solid food is a complementary nutrition source before the age of one so the focus should be more on fun, flavor exposure and sensory exploration than consumption.
  • Minimize Distractions: Keep the focus on the food and avoid books, screens or other distractions to encourage your baby to eat.
  • Role Model: Babies learn by watching. Sharing meals with your baby (even before you start solids) sets the foundation for the social (and enjoyable) experience of mealtimes.
  • Be Patient: Some meals will go better than others. Try not to stress over how much (or little) your baby ate. Keep it fun and pressure free.

How to Help Baby With Spices and Flavor


Can I use spices in my baby’s first foods?

can-i-use-spices-in-babys-first-foods-starting-solids-expert-answer

Jenny Janov, MPH, RD - Registered Pediatric Dietitian

Yes! Once you have started solids, it’s perfectly safe and even beneficial to introduce spices to your baby. Introducing herbs and spices can help expand their palate and make them more accepting of different flavors as they grow. The only thing you should avoid when starting solids is salt.

Which herbs or seasonings are safe to introduce early?

which-herbs-spices-are-safe-for-baby-starting-solids-expert-answer

Jenny Janov, MPH, RD - Registered Pediatric Dietitian

Try introducing small amounts of your favorite seasonings to build your baby’s love of the same flavors. And just as with new foods, consider introducing one new spice at a time and keep an eye on how your baby responds.

For more ideas, here are some baby-friendly, commonly used herbs and spices:

  • Embrace the Mess: As with all parenting stages, messy feeding is a phase. Lean into it and allow your baby to have fun playing with their food.
  • Cinnamon: great added to apples or pears, oatmeal and sweet potatoes
  • Garlic: add to vegetables, beans and lentils
  • Ginger: add to pears, pumpkin, carrots
  • Thyme: add to tomato-based purees, potatoes and meats
  • Cumin: add to veggies, beans, and chicken

Autonomy and Table Manners


How do I encourage my baby to self-feed?

how-do-i-help-my-baby-self-feed

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD & Dr. Irini Kolaitis MD - Pediatricians

Self-feeding builds confidence, fine motor skills, and independence. Before even starting solids, you can help lay the groundwork for good self-feeding, by bringing your baby to the table at mealtimes. Babies learn so much by watching and modeling the behavior of adults around, so have them eat with you. By the time they are ready to start solids, the foundation of how to self-feed will have been modeled numerous times.

Here are some additional tips to encourage self-feeding once your baby is ready to start eating on their own:

  • Start early: Around 6 months, offer soft finger foods that babies can hold and bring to their mouth.
  • Try preloaded spoons: let the baby grab a spoon with mashed food or yogurt.
  • Let them explore: Place food directly on a plate or tray and allow hands-on interaction.
  • Avoid pressure: Let your baby decide what, how much, and whether to eat from what you offer.
  • Make peace with the mess: Messy meals are part of learning. Use a washable smock or a splat mat (or have two furry dog vacuum cleaners like me!) to make cleanup easier.
  • Keep eating with them: Modeling eating at mealtimes is still one of the best ways to encourage self-feeding.

💡 Bébé Foodie takeaway Self feeding is not just about eating. It is a sensory experience that lays the groundwork for a healthy feeding relationship.

How can I build good mealtime habits and table manners from the start?

how-can-i-build-good-mealtine-habits-table-manners-from-the-start-starting-solids-expert-answer

Dr. Michelle Shiffman, MD & Dr. Irini Kolaitis MD - Pediatricians

Good table habits do but begin with rules but instead are based on connection and consistency. Your baby learns from watching you, so model the behaviors you hope to see.

Here are a few key habits to start early:

  • Eat together: Sit with your baby and eat at the same time whenever possible. Even if you're just drinking your coffee. Regular family meals offer ongoing opportunities for your baby to learn table manners from adults and older siblings.
  • Create a Routine: Babies thrive off predictability and routines. Wash hands, sit in the high chair, and bring the food. Familiar rituals help babies stay focused. Start meals with a simple cue—wash hands, sit in the high chair, food appears on the tray. Predictability helps babies feel secure and focused.
  • Keep screens off: Avoid distractions like phones or TVs during meals.Babies thrive on face to face interaction during meals.
  • Respect Cues: Babies have an innate ability to self-regulate. If they are not hungry, don’t force it. Say “All done” instead of pushing for one more bite. Trust that your baby knows when they have had enough.
  • Use gentle modeling: Being patient and offering gentle redirection will allow your baby to learn while keeping mealtimes enjoyable.If food is thrown, calmly redirect and model placing it back on the plate.

💡 Bébé Foodie takeaway Mealtime manners start with connection, not correction. The goal is to raise a confident, curious eater who enjoys food and family time.


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