Starting solids: what the NHS says
The NHS says to start solids at around 6 months, when three signs show up together. Chewing fists and waking at night aren't among them.
3 November 2026
What to sort at 6–9 months
Food arrives, and a highchair with it. Crawling may follow, so it pays to look at your home from floor height.
Now
A highchair
A free-standing chair with a securely fitted harness. RoSPA doesn't recommend the kind that clips to a table.
A spoon, a bowl and a cup
That's about all weaning asks for. The NHS suggests an open or free-flow cup from around 6 months.
Soon
Stair gates
Fit them before your baby is on the move.
Knowing gagging from choking
Worth reading before it happens. Ask your health visitor if you're unsure.
Can wait
Toddler milks
Not needed. The NHS says first infant formula is the only formula a baby needs, with whole or semi-skimmed cow's milk from 1 year.
A baby walker
Skip it. RoSPA advises against them.
This is general information from public sources, not medical advice. For anything about your child's health or development, speak to your doctor or health visitor.
Reading for 6–9 months
IKEA Antilop highchair review
Rated to 3 years or 15kg, with legs that come off for carrying. Two test outlets list a three-point harness, and the NHS says 5-point, so read that part. An older recall covers earlier stock.
3 November 2026
Highchairs, from £12 up
Five freestanding highchairs ranked by price, from a plain IKEA seat to chairs that take an adult. What's in each price varies, so we list the extras.
3 November 2026
Gagging and choking: the difference
Gagging is loud and choking is quiet, says the NHS. Call 999 if a blockage doesn't come out after back blows and thrusts.
3 November 2026