Busting Baby Food Myths: What You Really Need to Know About Starting Solids

Starting solids can be one of the most exciting — and confusing — milestones of early parenting. With all the conflicting advice out there, it’s easy to feel unsure about when to start, what method to choose, and whether you’re doing it “right.”

At Holistic Abilities Pediatric Occupational Therapy, we’re here to break down some common myths about starting solids — and help you feel more confident and connected at mealtime.

🚫 Myth #1: “I can start solids as soon as my baby turns 4 months old.”

✅ Truth: Starting solids isn’t about age — it’s about developmental readiness. The key is watching for signs that your baby’s body and motor skills are ready for the next step.

👀 Look for:

• Sitting upright in a high chair with minimal to no slouching

• Stable head and neck control

• Reaching for objects

• Showing interest in food

• Bringing hands to mouth during play or at the table

Just because a baby hits a certain age doesn’t mean they’re ready — and that’s totally normal!

🚫 Myth #2: “I have to choose between purées or baby-led weaning.”

✅ Truth: You don’t have to pick sides! Many families use a combination of purées and baby led weaning approaches depending on the baby’s interest, skills, and parent comfort.

🤝 Consider:

• An approach that allows your baby to explore food in a positive, comfortable way.

• Your comfort matters too. If one approach makes you anxious, it’s okay to modify.

Feeding should feel safe and connected — not stressful. There’s no one “right” way!

🚫 Myth #3: “I need fancy, expensive feeding gear to start solids.”

✅ Truth: You really don’t need much to start. The best tools are ones that support your baby’s independence — and they don’t have to break the bank.

🛠 Here are some helpful (but not essential) tools:

• A shallow spoon (like the Nuk Gootensil) to support early scooping and self-feeding

• Small open cups like condiment cups or repurposed newborn bottles without the nipple

• A safe, supportive high chair with feet on a stable surface

No flashy gadgets necessary — just practical tools that fit your comfort and your baby’s development.

🚫 Myth #4: “If my baby doesn’t like a food after a few tries, I should stop offering it.”

✅ Truth: It can take 20 to 30 exposures to a food before a baby accepts it — and that doesn’t mean 30 bites! Exposure includes seeing, smelling, touching, or playing with a food.

😬 Grimaces ≠ dislikes. Babies explore with their whole body — so making faces, spitting out food, or dropping it on the floor is part of the process, not a rejection.

Be patient, stay consistent, and keep mealtime low-pressure. You’re laying the groundwork for a lifetime of food curiosity!

💬 Final Thoughts

You don’t need to follow strict rules, stick to a rigid method, or buy fancy gear. Trust your baby, trust your gut, and remember that progress is more important than perfection.

✨ Need help feeding your baby?

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