By the second half of their first year, most babies have the ability to eat easy-to-swallow solids. Cereal is often the most recommended first solid food for an infant, according to HealthyChildren.org, a website published by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Cereal can generally be introduced as a complement to a baby's regular diet of breast milk or formula sometime between 4 and 6 months.
Signs
As a general rule, a baby who has doubled his birth weight is ready for cereal, explains MedlinePlus, a website published by the National Institutes of Health. Showing interest in what those around him are eating and shutting his mouth or turning away when not interested in eating are all signs that a baby may be ready for solids.The ability to sit with minimal assistance and keep his head steady are also key developmental milestones that suggest solids are in order.
Type and Serving Amount
Adding a small amount of rice cereal to breast milk or formula twice a day may be the best way to introduce your baby to the world of solid foods. Mix 1 tbsp. of cereal with about 4 tbsp. of milk. Iron fortified cereals provide up to 45 percent of a baby's iron needs, which becomes important as the natural supply of iron begins to fall off around 6 months.
Resist the urge to feed watery cereal in a bottle. Instead use a spoon and offer another one to your baby. Don't worry if your baby does not seem thrilled with the idea of solids at first. Keep trying until she gets used to the idea--but don't force the issue either, advises the Mayo Clinic.
Precautions
Wheat, barley and mixed variety cereals may be more likely to cause an allergic response in infants. Notify your health care provider if you suspect your baby is having a reaction to cereal. Rash, diarrhea and vomiting are possible signs of food allergy.
Outlook
When your baby has had a couple of months to become proficient at eating cereal, finely cut veggies, fruits and soft pasta, cheese and ground meat may be added to his repertoire of solids. By age 8 to 10 months an infant should be able to pick up and eat finger foods independently. Popcorn, raisins and nuts should not be given to babies because they may cause choking.
