Introducing solid foods to your baby is an exciting milestone. Everything you need to know about timing, safety, and recommended menu items is here, as well as a simple baby food chart you can print at home. By the time your baby is 4 to 6 months old, you’ve probably made breastfeeding or formula feeding training an art.

Don’t relax, however, your baby will soon be ready for “real” food. Here’s everything you need to know about how to start solid foods for your baby, as well as tips on proper food intake. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says you should start giving your baby solid foods between 4 and 6 months of age, but the answer really depends on your baby. Here are some signs that your little one might be ready for baby food: They can sit up straight and keep their heads up.

They are curious, they look at everything around, especially what you eat! They have lost the tongue-ejection reflex, which automatically ejects food from the mouth. They still seem to be hungry after they get their full daily allowance of milk. Remember that there is no need to rush this step. Most babies are ready to start complementary foods between 5 and 6 months of age. Don’t start complementary foods before 4 months.