The current UK advice is to stick to breastmilk (or formula if your baby isn't breastfed) for the first six months. But babies' needs are individual - some need food a little sooner, and others are fine on milk only for a little longer.
A lot of parents begin with purees, but this isn't essential
You can offer your baby a range of foods, as long as she can manage them. A lot of parents begin with purees, but this isn't essential. From around six months onwards, your baby can use her fingers and hands to bring food to her mouth, and this 'baby-led' weaning approach is a good way of helping her learn the connection between taste, appearance and texture.
If the food is hot, make sure you stir and test it before giving it to your baby. Don't add any foods to a bottle with milk, as it could cause your baby to choke.
Don't force-feed her - if she doesn't seem to want the food, try again another day.
Your baby should still be having breastfeeds or 600ml (one pint) of formula milk a day.
Don't rush your baby - give her as much time as she needs to feed.
Make sure you're both relaxed before you start to feed.
Feed your baby on your lap or in a high chair When introducing new foods, try to mix them in with familiar ones.
Go at your baby's pace and don't be upset if she refuses the food - she'll get used to the idea.
Weaning can be a messy business so make sure you're prepared to get your clothes, flooring and your baby very dirty indeed.
Try to increase the amount of food your give your baby - give her solids for two of her meals each day.
Don't add any salt to your baby's food - if she's eating food prepared for the whole family, make sure her portion has been set aside before seasoning.
Small amounts of sugar may be required to take away the sharpness from fruit such as gooseberry and rhubarb, but avoid adding sugar to food and drinks.
Preparing your own food for your baby is cheaper than buying ready-made jars, because it can be made in bulk and frozen, and you know exactly what the ingredients are.