Which combination of readiness signs indicates a baby is ready for solids?

• A. Good head control, able to sit with support, showing interest in foods, diminished tongue-thrust reflex.
• B. Good head control and ability to sit with support.
• C. Teeth eruption indicates readiness.
• D. Solids should be introduced after a year.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is recognizing when a baby has the physical control needed to handle solid foods safely. Before solids, a baby should show enough postural stability to sit upright and keep the head steady, so the airway is protected and swallowing is coordinated.

This combination—good head control together with the ability to sit with some support—best signals readiness because it directly reflects the baby’s ability to maintain an upright position and manage swallowing while eating. Upright posture helps with swallowing solids and reduces choking risk, which is the most important practical readiness cue at this stage.

Other signs can appear alongside readiness but aren’t as decisive on their own. Interest in foods is encouraging but doesn’t guarantee safe swallowing. The tongue-thrust reflex fading is helpful context but varies among babies and isn’t the sole determinant. Teeth eruption isn’t a reliable readiness marker for starting solids, and introducing solids after a year is later than recommended for typical development.