Around five to six months, your baby is approaching one of the most exciting stages yet—starting solids. This period is all about preparing for that big leap while still focusing on milk as their primary nutrition.
At the same time, you’ll see major motor skill development—rolling, sitting with support, and maybe even early attempts at crawling.
What’s Happening with Your Baby in Weeks 21–24?
Sitting with better support. Some babies can sit upright for short periods with minimal help.
Rolling easily. Most babies can roll both ways by now and may pivot in circles on their tummy.
Pushing up on arms. During tummy time, they may push up high or even try to scoot.
More babbling. Sounds may start resembling consonants like “m” and “b.”
Grabbing and transferring objects. They can pick up a toy and pass it from one hand to the other.
Your baby is becoming more coordinated, social, and engaged with the world.
Is It Time for Solids Yet?
Most babies are ready to start solids around six months. You’ll know your baby is ready when they:
Can sit upright with minimal support.
Have good head and neck control.
Show curiosity about your food.
Can close their mouth around a spoon and swallow, not just push food out with their tongue.
Until then, breastmilk or formula remains the only food they need.
First Foods and Safe Starts
When the time comes, start with simple, single-ingredient foods:
Smooth purees like sweet potato, carrot, or avocado.
Iron-rich options like well-cooked pureed meat or iron-fortified baby cereal.
Introduce one new food at a time, waiting 3 days before adding another to monitor allergies.
You can choose spoon-fed purees or a baby-led weaning approach with soft, safe finger foods—both are fine as long as they’re age-appropriate.
Poop Changes with Solids
Once solids begin, expect major diaper changes:
Thicker texture and stronger smell.
More variety in color depending on the food—orange after carrots, green after spinach.
Less frequent bowel movements in some babies.
Normal colors range from yellow to green to brown. Call your doctor if you see:
Bright red streaks (could mean constipation or irritation).
White or chalky stools.
Black stools (unless it’s from iron-fortified foods).
Food Allergies: What to Watch For
When introducing new foods, especially common allergens like peanuts, eggs, or dairy, monitor for:
Rash or hives
Vomiting or diarrhea
Swelling of the lips, face, or tongue
Difficulty breathing (seek emergency care immediately)
Introduce potential allergens one at a time, in small amounts, and during the day so you can watch for reactions.
Sleep During This Stage
Some babies go through another developmental leap during this time, which can temporarily disrupt sleep. You may notice:
More night wakings due to new skills like rolling.
Shorter naps as they’re more aware of their surroundings.
The beginning of a more defined routine with 2–3 longer naps instead of many short ones.
Keeping a calm bedtime routine helps them wind down.
Playtime and Interaction
Play is becoming much more active now.
Offer toys they can grab, shake, and explore with their mouth.
Encourage tummy time to build strength for crawling.
Place toys just out of reach to motivate rolling or scooting.
Read simple books—they love hearing your voice and seeing bright pictures.
They’re also more social, so they’ll love games like peek-a-boo or pat-a-cake.
A Gentle Reminder
Weeks 21–24 are full of change. Your baby is learning new skills, becoming more mobile, and preparing for one of the biggest milestones—eating solid food.
Take it step by step. They don’t need a full menu right away, just slow, simple introductions. And through all the mess, remember this is an exciting new chapter for both of you.
What’s Coming Next?
Weeks 25–28 will bring even more mobility—sitting more steadily, possibly crawling, and exploring their surroundings. We’ll also discuss introducing a wider variety of foods and how to balance solids with milk.