Weaning readiness checklist

Look for readiness, not hitting a milestone

The NHS recommends introducing solid foods from around six months. The three signs are being able to stay sitting and hold the head steady, coordinate eyes, hands, and mouth to bring food to the mouth, and swallow food rather than push it back out with their tongue.

If your baby was premature or has health or developmental needs, ask your health visitor, GP, or relevant clinical team for individual advice.

• Steady head control while sitting
• Reaches for and brings food to the mouth
• Swallows food
• Signs appear together from around six months

Keep first meals simple and safe

Start with small amounts and let your baby explore tastes and textures at their pace. Breast milk or first infant formula remains their primary nutrients while solids are introduced.

Stay with your baby whenever they are eating. Prepare food in an age-appropriate shape and texture, and follow current guidance on choking prevention, foods to avoid, and food prep hygiene.

It is often recommended that you introduce one food per day, and once tolerated mix with other foods, starting with root vegetables then other vegetables and fruits. Grains and proteins can slowly be introduced thereafter.

Keep a note of the foods you try so you can identify any reactions that may develop. Take pictures of any suspected reaction to share with your GP or clinical team.

Introduce variety and allergens

The NHS advises that allergenic foods can be introduced from around six months, one at a time and in small amounts, so a reaction is easier to spot. Once tolerated, they can remain part of the usual diet.

Key allergens include peanuts, tree nuts such as hazelnuts, cashews and almonds, eggs, wheat, dairy or milk, soya and shrimp.

Speak to a health professional before introduction if your baby has an existing allergy, severe eczema or reflux, or you have been advised that they may be at higher risk.