There is something genuinely exciting about watching your baby take her first tentative nibble of solid food. You can almost see her hesitating and thinking "Hey! What’s this?" before taking a second experimental bite. Her funny faces will have you laughing. Keep your phone or camera handy.

Every baby is different, but yours will let you know how much she wants to eat and what she likes and dislikes. She will also eat different amounts on different days.

When introducing solid foods, begin with single-ingredient foods. Wait 3 to 5 days before introducing each new food to confirm or dismiss any concern about allergies.

Start with a small amount and increase gradually. Even a teaspoonful is enough for some beginners.

At first, try giving your baby solid food for only one feeding each day. If she will not eat it, try introducing it again in a few days.

Choose a time of day that is the least stressful for you and when your baby is not too hungry. Many parents find mid-morning or mid-afternoon an ideal time.

As your baby gets used to eating from a spoon, you can gradually increase the amount and consistency, offering 2 or 3 feedings a day.

Your baby should always be in a seated position when eating.