Introducing solid foods is a big step for your baby, and it brings many benefits beyond just filling their tummy. Around 6 months old, your baby’s body needs more nutrition than milk alone can provide. That’s where solids come in.
Here’s how starting solids supports your baby’s growth and development.
- Meeting growing nutritional needs
By 6 months, your baby’s nutritional needs increase, especially for important nutrients like iron and zinc. Solid foods help bridge the gap between what milk alone can provide and what your baby needs to grow healthy and strong.
- Building acceptance of new textures
Introducing solids early on (when they are ready, around 6 months) helps your baby get used to new textures. This is important because:
- babies who experience a variety of textures early are often less cautious about trying new foods later.
- it can reduce the chance of developing texture aversions, which are common in toddlers.
- Helping with neophobia (fear of new things)
It’s normal for young children to go through neophobic stages, where they’re wary of new foods. Offering a wide range of textures consistently during weaning can help build confidence and acceptance as they grow.
- Supporting speech development
Chewing and moving food around the mouth strengthens the muscles in your baby’s mouth, tongue, and jaw. These muscles are essential for clear speech as your child gets older.
We support families through every stage of weaning, making sure your baby has the best start with food—setting them up for healthy eating and development right from the start.