Your baby is eyeing your dinner plate. They're reaching for your fork. They're sitting up and watching every bite you take with suspicious intensity. It's time.
Starting solids is a milestone — and it can feel overwhelming. What do you start with? What consistency? How much? Here's a clear, simple guide.
WHEN TO START
Most pediatricians recommend introducing solids around 6 months, though some babies show readiness signs as early as 4 months. Signs of readiness include: sitting up with minimal support, showing interest in food, and losing the tongue-thrust reflex.
Always check with your pediatrician before starting.
WHAT CONSISTENCY TO USE
For first foods, think smooth applesauce — silky, thin, no lumps. This is exactly what makes pouches so perfect for this stage. Blend your purees with a splash of breast milk, formula, or water to get the right consistency, then pour straight into your Squooshi.
THE BEST FIRST FOODS
Single-ingredient purees (start here):
- Sweet potato
- Butternut squash
- Peas
- Carrot
- Pear
- Apple
- Banana
- Avocado
Start with one ingredient for 3–5 days before introducing another. This makes it easy to identify any sensitivities.
Two-ingredient combos (after the first few weeks):
- Sweet potato + apple
- Pea + banana
- Carrot + pear
- Avocado + banana
WHAT TO AVOID BEFORE 12 MONTHS
- Honey (risk of infant botulism)
- Cow's milk as a main drink
- Added salt or sugar
- Choking hazards
HOW MUCH TO SERVE
Start with 1–2 teaspoons once a day. Gradually increase to 2–3 tablespoons, 1–2 times per day. At this stage, milk is still the primary nutrition source — food is practice and exploration.
Ready to get started? Our First Foods recipe collection has five no-fail first purees that take under 20 minutes each.
