Some signs that your baby is ready for solid foods include:

• Your baby is able to sit with support and hold their head up.

• Your baby is watching you eat and is reaching for food.

• You will notice that milk may no longer seem to satisfy your baby, who seems unsettled and may want more feeds.

• Your baby can move their tongue from the front to the back of the mouth.

It's always a good idea to introduce solids when both you and your baby are feeling relaxed and you have plenty of time.

Other helpful tips to make this exciting time a smooth and enjoyable transition include:

• Don't rush it: Try one food at a time, every two or three days. If a food is refused try again a few days later unless there has been a reaction (eg vomiting or a rash). New foods may be rejected at first. A food may need to be offered more than 10 times before it is accepted.

• From about age seven or eight months, start offering solids first before a breast or formula feed. And remember, never put solid foods in your baby's bottle.

• Utensils: Use a small shallow rubber or plastic spoon with smooth edges.

• Don't overheat: Your baby will accept food better at room temperature or only slightly warmer. Always test the temperature on the back of your hand or wrist before giving to your baby — no heat should be felt. And remember, microwaves heat unevenly. Always mix the food thoroughly after heating in a microwave to ensure even distribution of heat, and wait a few minutes before offering.

• Never leave your baby alone while they are eating.

If you have any questions on introducing solids feel free to e-mail one of our dieticians at nutrition@sanitarium.com.au or download our infant nutrition fact sheet.

Introducing solids can be a time of fun and discovery for both you and your baby.

This information is provided by the Sanitarium Nutrition Service.

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