Question

What are some physical cues that an infant is ready for solid foods? (Select all that apply)

	Turns head toward any object that brushes cheek
	Is able to sit erect and hold head up
	Pushes food out
	Brings hand to mouth

Answer 1

Physical cues of an infant, that he is ready for solid foods:

Answer: is able to sit erect  and hold head up. ( Option B).

Untill and unless the baby can sit erect and hold his/ her head up, she can't/ is not ready for having the solid food. One of the main physical cue , that indicate the baby is ready for solid food , is the baby's ability to sit erect  and hold head up. In sitting position, the swallowing will be easy and there will be less risk for aspiration of food.

Wrong options: Explanation

Option 1: Turns head to any object that brushes cheek.

This is one of the reflex , that baby can have from birth itself. This reflex is called ' Rooting reflex' . Baby can turn his head towards the object, that brushes his cheek. This reflex helps the baby to find nipple and for feeding. This is not a sign for the solid food introduction to baby.

Option 3: Pushes food out

This cue is not a sign of babies' readiness for solid food, instead it is a sign that baby is not ready to swallow the food. When she dribbles less and can move and swallow food , then only she will be ready for recieving solid food.

Option 4: Brings hand to mouth

A baby can bring  his hands to his mouth by the second month. Then he starts sucking his fingers or thumb , whenever he wants. It is not a sign for baby's readiness for solid foods.