Rice cereal is commonly used as a first food because it is gluten-free and less allergenic than other foods, according to Babycenter. Sometime between 4 and 6 months of age, your baby will be ready for rice cereal. This stage typically includes a more developed digestive system and the skills necessary for eating solid food.
Age
According to Kids Health, your baby will likely be ready to start eating solid foods around 4 months of age or later. Until she is 4 months old, breast milk and formula are typically her only source of nutrition. If her doctor feels that she has nutritional needs that are not being met with formula and breast milk, she might start eating cereal earlier.
Skills
Your baby will demonstrate some physical skills when he is ready to eat solid foods, such as rice cereal. Babycenter states that he will lose his extrusion reflex and will move food from the back of his mouth instead of pushing it out with his tongue. He will also be able to support his head, sit with support and may show an interest in solid foods.
Preparation
To start feeding your baby rice cereal, begin with 1 to 2 teaspoons of cereal with enough formula or breast milk to make the cereal semi-liquid. Feed your baby the cereal once a day when she is not tired or excessively hungry. As she gets used to the cereal, you can gradually increase the thickness and amount until she is having a few tablespoons a day.
Recommendations
If your baby does not seem interested in rice cereal, try offering it again in a few days. Remember that learning to eat cereal and other solid foods will take practice for your baby, so the process may not be easy or neat for a while.
Warnings
Jan Barger, R.N., M.A. states that there is no evidence that adding rice cereal to your baby's bottle will help her sleep better at night. In fact, it can make her overweight and can be a choking hazard. If your baby shows any signs of an allergic reaction after eating rice cereal, such as a rash, bloating or diarrhea, talk to her doctor.
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