Starting Solids: A Guide, but in Baby Bites
They grow up fast—and now they’re ready for their first bites! Here’s your go-to guide for navigating solids with less stress and more smiles.
Download the Guide Below!
Starting solids is a moment many parents look forward to—and one that can bring a wave of questions. You might find yourself wondering: Is my baby ready? Should I start with purées or finger foods? What if they gag? What if they don’t like it?
Take a breath. You’re not alone, and you’re doing great.
At Treehouse Pediatrics, we’re here to guide you through this exciting stage with confidence, encouragement, and a bit of mess-friendly realism. That’s why we’re thrilled to share a completely parent-focused Starting Solids Guide, created and generously shared by pediatric dietitian and mom, Min Kwon, MS, RDN from MJ & Hungryman, whose expertise and heart for families are at the core of this resource.
Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, this guide meets you where you are. It’s designed to help you navigate feeding milestones with less stress and more joy—because food isn’t just fuel, it’s a family experience.
What's Inside the Guide
This expert-backed, parent-friendly guide is packed with answers to the questions nearly every parent asks in their baby’s first year:
- Is my baby ready to start solids? Learn how to spot the real signs of readiness—including sitting with support, good head control, and a growing curiosity about food.
- Which feeding approach is best? Whether you’re leaning toward spoon-feeding, baby-led weaning, or a bit of both, the guide offers a non-judgmental breakdown so you can choose the style that fits your family.
- What do mealtimes look like in the beginning? Get realistic expectations for your baby’s first meals. (Spoiler: Spitting, smashing, and slow chewing are all part of the process.)
- How do I prevent choking? You’ll find a clear list of potential choking hazards and tips for modifying foods so they’re safe for little ones still learning how to chew and swallow.
- What about food allergies? The guide covers when and how to introduce common allergens—like peanuts, eggs, and dairy—with safety and confidence.
- What nutrients matter most at this stage? As your baby grows, their nutritional needs change. This guide explains key nutrients like iron, protein, healthy fats, and how to incorporate them into baby’s meals using real, accessible foods.
- How can I build a balanced plate? With sample meal ideas and flexible formulas, you’ll be empowered to feed your baby with variety, nutrition, and heart.
Real Talk: It’s Okay if It’s Messy
We want you to know that it’s completely normal if your baby makes a funny face, spits food out, or refuses a bite. Starting solids is about learning—not perfection. Think of these first few weeks as a chance to explore together, without pressure. Some days your baby may devour a full serving of sweet potato. Other days, they might just mash it into their highchair tray. Both days count as wins.
Mealtimes don’t have to be picture-perfect! They just have to be safe, consistent, and loving.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need to be a feeding expert to help your baby thrive. You just need to follow their cues, stay curious, and trust that progress will come—one bite at a time.
We’re incredibly grateful to pediatric dietitian and mom, Min Kwon, MS, RDN, for sharing her expertise and resources freely to help empower the families in our care. Her thoughtful, approachable guidance has already supported so many parents navigating solids—and this is just the beginning. Keep an eye out for more insights from her in the future!
If you’re preparing to start solids or already in the thick of it, we invite you to download her free Starting Solids Guide. It’s easy to read, packed with practical tips, and created with real families in mind.