Both of my boys loved starting solids. Watching them explore new flavors and textures was such a fun milestone—but I’ll be honest: I felt a little unsure about how to keep up with breastfeeding while they were so into food. It almost seemed like they preferred it to nursing!
If you're in a similar phase, you’re not alone. This stage can bring up a lot of questions: Am I supposed to breastfeed less? What if baby starts losing interest? What if solids cause allergies?
In this post—part three of our breastfeeding series—we partnered with Breastfeeding Hawai‘i to help you navigate feeding during this transitional stage.
When can I start offering solids?
Most babies are ready around 6 months, but watch for developmental signs:
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Sits up with minimal support
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Has good head control
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Reaches for food and opens mouth
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Doesn’t reflexively push food out with tongue
How much food should I give?
Start with 1–2 tablespoons per meal, then slowly increase to 3–4 tablespoons. Let your baby explore flavors, textures, and messes!
Remember:
You decide what, when, and where
Your baby decides how much (or whether) to eat
How often should I breastfeed?
Breastmilk is still your baby’s main source of nutrition until age one. You may notice shorter sessions or longer stretches between feeds—that’s normal.
Feed responsively and continue offering the breast first, then solids 30–60 minutes later.
What if baby prefers solids over nursing?
Sometimes babies get distracted or less interested in breastfeeding. Ask yourself:
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Is baby teething or in a growth spurt?
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Is milk supply lower than usual?
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Is baby just more curious about the world?
Try:
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Nursing in calm, quiet spaces
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Offering breastmilk first
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Rebuilding supply with hand expression or pumping
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Extra skin-to-skin time
Remember: 75% of baby’s nutrition should still come from breastmilk before age 1.
What about food allergies?
Current guidelines recommend early introduction of common allergens around 6 months—especially peanuts and eggs.
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Introduce one food at a time
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Wait 3–5 days between new foods
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Watch for rash, vomiting, or diarrhea
What about choking?
Choking is rare but scary. Avoid:
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Hard round foods (e.g., whole grapes, raw carrots)
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Sticky chunks (e.g., peanut butter, marshmallows)
Stay close while baby eats and take an infant CPR class if you’re feeling unsure.
