Feeding Your Baby at 6 Months: A Complete Guide
Introducing solid foods is one of the most exciting and challenging times for parents. At 6 months, your baby is ready to explore new flavors and textures that will complement breastfeeding or formula feeding.
Signs That Your Baby Is Ready
Before starting complementary feeding , make sure your baby shows these signs:
- Sits without support - Trunk control developed
- Has lost the extrusion reflex - Does not push food out with the tongue
- Shows interest in food - Observes and reaches for food
- Can coordinate eyes, hands and mouth - Intentionally brings objects to mouth
Recommended First Foods
Week 1-2: Cereals and Vegetables
Start with low allergen risk foods:
- Gluten-free cereals: Rice, corn, quinoa
- Soft vegetables: Pumpkin, carrot, sweet potato
- Sweet fruits: Banana, pear, cooked apple
- Preparation: Smooth, lump-free purees
Week 3-4: Expanding Flavors
Gradually introduce new textures and flavors :
- Green vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, peas
- Acidic fruits: Orange, mandarin (seedless)
- Cereals containing gluten: Oats, wheat (if there is no history of allergies)
- Textures: Less smooth purees, small soft pieces
Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) Method
Baby-led weaning is a popular alternative:
- Basic principle: The baby feeds himself from the beginning
- Appropriate foods: Large pieces that can be grasped
- Benefits: Develops autonomy and motor coordination
- Supervision: Always under adult supervision
Essential Food Products
At Huellitas de Vida you will find everything you need:
- Safe high chairs: With 5-point harness and adjustable tray
- Anti-colic bottles: For milk and liquid porridge
- Silicone Spoons: Gentle on sensitive gums
- Suction cups: Prevent plates from falling off the table
- Waterproof bibs: Easy to clean
Feeding Schedules and Routines
Recommended Daily Structure
- 7:00 AM: Breast milk/formular milk
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast - Cereal or fruit
- 12:00 PM: Lunch - Vegetables and protein
- 3:00 PM: Breast milk/formular milk
- 6:00 PM: Dinner - Vegetables and cereals
- 9:00 PM: Milk before bed
Foods to Avoid in the First Year
For safety and proper development, avoid these foods :
- Honey: Risk of infant botulism
- Whole nuts: Choking hazard
- Added salt and sugar: The kidneys are not yet mature
- Cow's milk: As a main drink before the age of one
- Large fish: High in mercury
Food Warning Signs
Consult your pediatrician immediately if you observe:
- Skin rashes after eating
- Persistent vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Facial or lip swelling
Tips for Successful Eating
- Patience: They may need 10+ exposures to a food
- Variety: Offers different colors and textures
- Relaxed atmosphere: No distractions like TV or cell phones
- Example: Eat with your baby to model behaviors
- Respect his signals: Don't force him if he refuses food.
Remember: Every baby has their own rhythm. Complementary feeding should be a positive experience that lays the foundation for a healthy relationship with food.