Tools · Nutrition
Solid Foods Readiness Checker: Is Your Baby Ready to Start Solids?
Free interactive checker to see if your baby is ready for solid foods. Tick the developmental readiness signs to get instant, evidence-based guidance.
Tick each sign your baby shows:
Tick the signs above to see your result.
This tool offers general, evidence-based guidance and is not medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician before starting solids.
Understanding the Readiness Signs
Readiness for solids is about development, not just age. The two most important physical signs are sitting with good head control and the loss of the tongue-thrust reflex — the automatic reflex that pushes objects out of the mouth, which protects young babies from choking. Combined with being around 6 months old and showing genuine interest in food, these signal that your baby's body is ready to handle solids safely.
If only some signs are present, there is no need to rush. Waiting one or two more weeks and trying again is completely fine and often makes the start of solids smoother and safer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age should babies start solid foods?
Major health organizations recommend starting solids at around 6 months, and not before 4 months. Age alone is not enough, though — your baby should also show the developmental readiness signs: sitting with support, steady head control, loss of the tongue-thrust reflex, and interest in food.
Can I start solids before 6 months?
Solids should never be started before 4 months, when the digestive system and motor skills are not ready. Between 4 and 6 months, some babies may be ready on medical advice, but most guidance points to around 6 months. Baby-led weaning specifically requires the sitting and grasping skills that typically develop at 6 months.
What are the signs my baby is NOT ready?
Signs a baby is not yet ready include needing to be propped up to stay upright, poor head control, automatically pushing food out with the tongue, and showing no interest in food. If these are present, it is best to wait a couple of weeks and try again — there is no rush.
Should I start with purees or finger foods?
Both purees (traditional spoon-feeding) and finger foods (baby-led weaning) are valid once your baby shows readiness signs. Many families combine the two. Whichever you choose, always supervise meals, offer soft textures, and include iron-rich foods, since iron stores start to deplete around 6 months.
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Start Solids with Confidence Using Whispie
Track first foods, watch for reactions, and follow age-appropriate feeding guidance every step of the way.