In our tradition, annaprashan is done at 6 months for boys and 5 months for girls. But I’ve heard that 6 months is the safe age for solids. How do I know when to start?

Global guidelines usually suggest starting solids around 6 months when baby shows readiness cues, but many families blend traditions with pediatric advice.

Community Answers from Moms(8)

Here's what moms in our community shared based on their own experience.

1. 1

   One mom started just after 5 months because her baby was very interested in food and could sit with minimal support.

2. 2

   Another mom shared that their family followed traditional annaprashan timing but still kept most nutrition from breastmilk or formula initially.

3. 3

   Readiness signs include: good head control, interest in food, reduced tongue-thrust reflex, and being able to sit with support.

4. 4

   WHO and AAP generally recommend starting solids around 6 months, so many US moms aim for close to 6 months but may shift a little earlier or later with their pediatrician’s guidance.

5. 5

   The general recommendation in India is completion of 6 months, but many doctors are okay starting around 5-5.5 months if the baby shows a lot of interest (opening the mouth when the spoon comes close), can sit with support and has good head control. Go by what your paediatrician says.

6. 6

   Start with one ingredient (like mashed banana or purees), don't introduce anything new for 2-3 days, use a feeding chair and keep the baby upright. No sugar/salt/honey for under 1 year. A baby's gut becomes fully mature around 6-9 months, so move from soft, easily digestible foods to harder items over months.

7. 7

   Daal water or rice water is not recommended as it's just water with no nutrients. Best to wait until your baby shows signs of being ready.

8. 8

   Many parents start just after completion of 5 months when the baby shows interest and can sit with minimal support, beginning with just one meal around noon to allow time to digest.