Our most common question here at Mum Mum’s is when (and what) to start feeding your baby solid foods. Mum Mum’s provides an Infant and Toddler Feeding Guide, as well as Teething Tips as a permanent feature on our website under the ‘Nutrition Resources’ tab. Here are some general guidelines for food introduction but keep in mind all babies are different and any food has the potential to be an allergen or intolerant so follow the 3 day rule: offer one food at a time and wait 3 days to see if a reaction occurs. Also be mindful of the size and shape of the foods. Pureed and or jarred versions of the foods listed below should be offered but not raw or uncooked because they can present a choking hazard as they are difficult for babies to chew. You can steam and puree these foods yourself if desired and ripe fruits can be mashed easily. Babies are often ready for solid foods between 4-6 months of age, and at this time a teething biscuit may be offered. Be sure to read our ‘Signs of Readiness’ resource if you are unsure of when to start feeding your baby solids.
6-8 Months
Grain: Rice or oat cereal, rice teething biscuits 
Protein: Chicken, turkey, or tofu – these should be given closer to 8 months and avoid soy if there is a family history of soy allergies
Veggies: Squash, zucchini, peas, carrots, parsnips, green beans, or sweet potatoes
Fruit: Avocado, banana, mango, pear, peach, pumpkin, plums, nectarines, or apricots
8-10 Months
Foods can be a bit chunkier at this point (but still pureed) you may also notice a stronger food preference or what appears to be a smaller food intake since foods are in bigger pieces but remain patient and allow your baby to guide her meals and food choices. Try to be offering balanced meals with small portions of protein, grain and/or fruit and veggie.
Grain: Kamut, quinoa, millet, gluten free pasta
Protein: Beans, legumes, beef (opt for natural/hormone free when possible)
Veggies: Broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, white potatoes, leeks, parsnips
Fruit: Kiwi, melons, cantaloupe, cherries, grapes (cut or mashed), blueberries, or figs
10-12 Months
Grain: Same as above but wait until closer to 12 months to bring in gluten containing grains like wheat
Protein: Add white-fleshed fish, but not shellfish
Veggies: Slowly introduce acidic veggies like tomatoes and watch for reaction
Fruit: Now you can make your own fruit combinations, just avoid the citrus until after 12 months
Dairy: Whole milk yogurt, cottage cheese, Colby, jack, or cheddar – but no soft cheeses like brie and this should be closer to 12 months
