There are a few good signs that a baby is ready for weaning, many of which are displayed at an average age of six months old. Such signs include:
- Your baby can sit up on their own and can also hold their head up. This shows that your baby’s strength is increasing, which requires more energy than milk alone can provide.
- Your baby starts reaching out and grabbing for other food and shows a genuine interest in what you are eating.
- Your baby starts putting things in his mouth; sucking his fists, chewing toys, etc.
- The loss of the tongue-thrust reflex (babies are born with the instinct to use their tongues to push objects away from their mouth)
- Your baby starts demanding feeds more often or still seems hungry after his usual milk feed.
- Your baby no longer sleeps through the night whereas he was before and has now begun to wake for an extra feed.
You should also be aware that the signs listed here may not be definite indications that your baby is ready for solids – try to wait until you witness a combination of all of these. If you are uncertain make sure to consult your healthcare advisor.
