WEBVTT 00:00:06.214 --> 00:00:11.428 Welcome, parents, to this comprehensive guide on Transitioning to Solid Food. 00:00:11.428 --> 00:00:17.600 In our opening chapter, 'Is Your Baby Ready? Spotting the Signs for Solid Foods,' 00:00:17.600 --> 00:00:24.441 we'll explore how to determine when your little one is ready to start this exciting new dietary phase. 00:00:24.441 --> 00:00:28.737 I'm here to guide you through these key developmental milestones. 00:00:28.737 --> 00:00:34.075 The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests starting solid foods 00:00:34.075 --> 00:00:37.203 when your baby is about 4 to 6 months old. 00:00:37.203 --> 00:00:40.707 However, each little one is unique 00:00:40.707 --> 00:00:44.294 and the right time may differ for your baby. 00:00:44.294 --> 00:00:47.088 Let's discover the signs that your baby 00:00:47.088 --> 00:00:48.882 might be ready. 00:00:48.882 --> 00:00:52.719 Firstly, has your baby mastered neck control? 00:00:52.719 --> 00:00:58.224 The ability to hold your head steady and upright is a fundamental sign of readiness. 00:00:58.224 --> 00:01:02.145 It's all about ensuring they can swallow safely. 00:01:02.145 --> 00:01:03.438 Next, 00:01:03.438 --> 00:01:05.523 the sit-down test. 00:01:05.523 --> 00:01:09.736 Can your little one sit up with minimal support? 00:01:09.736 --> 00:01:14.449 Sitting upright is crucial for safe eating and digestion. 00:01:14.449 --> 00:01:18.286 Curiosity about what you're eating is another clue. 00:01:18.286 --> 00:01:26.252 If your baby is eyeing your meals or reaching for your plate, it might be time for their own taste test. 00:01:26.252 --> 00:01:30.340 Is your baby able to make chewing motions? 00:01:30.340 --> 00:01:38.973 Moving food to the back of the mouth is a skill that needs to be in place before solids can be properly managed or introduced. 00:01:38.973 --> 00:01:43.394 An important sign is the diminishing tongue trust reflex. 00:01:43.394 --> 00:01:50.860 This natural response can push food out of the mouth and needs to decrease for successful feeding. 00:01:50.860 --> 00:01:59.202 Lastly, a growing appetite. If your baby seems hungry even with frequent milk feedings, 00:01:59.202 --> 00:02:04.415 they may be signaling that they're ready for something more substantial. 00:02:04.415 --> 00:02:12.674 At Sleep & Cradle®, we understand this transition is as monumental for you as it is for your baby. 00:02:12.674 --> 00:02:21.057 It's not just about nutrition; it's about growth, learning, and a whole new world of flavors and textures. 00:02:21.057 --> 00:02:28.148 As we round off this session, remember, these signs of readiness are your guideposts. 00:02:28.148 --> 00:02:36.990 With patience and attentiveness, you'll both be ready to embark on this delicious journey of solid food introduction. 00:02:36.990 --> 00:02:43.705 Stay with us as we delve deeper into choosing first foods, creating balanced meals, 00:02:43.705 --> 00:02:49.711 and ensuring your baby's dietary journey is safe, healthy, and joyful. 00:02:49.711 --> 00:02:52.672 For any questions on starting solids, 00:02:52.672 --> 00:02:57.302 Sleep & Cradle® is here to support your family every step of the way.