Your baby is now around 4.5–5 months old and getting closer to one of the biggest milestones yet—starting solids!
These weeks are about curiosity with food, stronger motor skills, and the early signs that your little one might soon be ready for more than milk.
What’s Happening with Your Baby in Weeks 19–20?
Sitting with support. They might sit upright with help or in a highchair for short moments.
Stronger hand coordination. They can grab toys (and try to put them straight in their mouth!).
Increased curiosity. You might notice them watching you eat with serious interest.
More vocal sounds. Babbling, squeals, and even “raspberries” are their new favorite noises.
Rolling both ways. Many babies start rolling from tummy to back and back to tummy by now.
They’re more aware of their surroundings and more fascinated by everything—including your plate of food!
Feeding: Is It Time for Solids Yet?
Not quite. Most babies aren’t truly ready for solids until around 6 months, but you might see early interest now.
Here’s how you’ll know when the real time comes:
Can sit with minimal support
Has good head control
Opens mouth when food is offered
Shows curiosity about what you’re eating
For now, milk (breastmilk or formula) is still their only nutrition.
Preparing for Solids
Even if it’s too early to start, you can get ready by:
Learning about first foods (single-ingredient purees or baby-led weaning).
Getting a baby spoon and a bib ready.
Talking with your pediatrician about food allergies and safe introductions.
When babies start solids, their poop will change—more on that below!
Poop Talk: Colors & What They Mean
Even before solids, you might see slight changes in diaper color. Once solids start, it’s even more varied.
Mustard yellow: Totally normal for breastfed babies.
Greenish: Usually fine—could be from foremilk/hindmilk imbalance or mild tummy changes.
Brown/tan: Common for formula-fed babies.
Bright red or white: Call your doctor—this could signal an issue.
When solids begin, expect thicker texture, stronger smell, and more variety based on what they eat.
Allergies & What to Watch For
When you eventually introduce solids, be aware of possible allergic reactions:
Rash or hives
Vomiting or diarrhea
Swelling of lips or face
Difficulty breathing (seek emergency help immediately)
Most babies tolerate foods well, but it’s best to introduce one new food at a time and wait a few days before adding another.
Sleep: The 4–5 Month Shift
Some babies at this stage go through the famous 4-month sleep regression, meaning:
More frequent night wakings
Shorter naps
Fussier bedtime
It’s temporary! Their brain is developing new sleep cycles, and they’ll adjust with time. Stick to a calm bedtime routine to help.
Playtime & Interaction
Your baby is more interactive than ever:
Give them soft spoons or teethers to hold—they’ll love exploring textures.
Play peek-a-boo or simple games like pat-a-cake.
Offer tummy time with exciting toys to encourage reaching and rolling.
Read simple picture books—they love hearing your voice.
They’re learning so much through play right now!
A Gentle Reminder
Your baby is growing out of the “tiny” stage and becoming a curious, active little person. You’re about to enter a whole new chapter with food, movement, and even more interaction.
Take it slow. Enjoy these last few weeks of just milk—the messy, fun food adventures are coming soon!
What’s Coming Next?
Weeks 21–24 will bring:
More rolling, sitting, and maybe scooting
Starting solids safely (when the time is right)
How poop changes with solids and when to worry about allergies