Why Your Baby Isn’t Moving from Purees to Solids (And How to Help)
Introduction
Is your baby 10–12 months old and still refusing solid foods? Many parents find themselves stuck in the puree stage, worrying whether their child is developing normally. You’re not alone - this is a very common feeding challenge.
In this blog, we’ll explore why babies sometimes resist solids, practical steps to help them transition, and when it’s worth seeking professional advice.
If your baby isn’t interested in food at all at this point, don’t worry - have a look at my blog covering this issue and what you can do next.
Why Babies Sometimes Refuse Solids
1. Developmental Stage
Babies are naturally cautious about new textures - this is called neophobia. Around 8–12 months, some children prefer familiar purees over lumpy textures.
2. Oral Motor Skills
Moving from smooth purees to solids requires stronger chewing, tongue control, and swallowing skills. Some babies haven’t fully mastered these yet.
3. Sensory Sensitivities
Texture, smell, and even color can impact willingness to try new foods. Babies with heightened sensitivity may reject anything that feels different from purees. For information on how a speech and language therapist can help with food sensory sensitivities, check out this blog.
4. Learned Preferences
If a baby is used to the comfort of smooth foods, they may resist solids simply because they are unfamiliar.
5. High Milk Intake
Sometimes frequent milk feeds reduce appetite for solids, making the transition slower.
Practical Strategies to Encourage Solids
1. Gradual Texture Introduction
Start with slightly thicker purees, then move to soft lumps
Offer mashed or finely chopped versions of familiar foods
2. Pair New Foods with Familiar Favorites
Serve a tiny portion of new texture alongside a puree they already like
Never force - gentle encouragement works best
3. Encourage Self-Feeding
Finger foods can build confidence and oral motor skills
Soft cooked vegetables, small pieces of fruit, or strips of toast are great starters
4. Sensory Play with Food
Let your baby touch, squish, or smell new textures before eating
This reduces anxiety and builds curiosity
5. Mealtime Routine and Positive Reinforcement
Keep mealtimes consistent
Celebrate small successes, even one bite of a new food
When to Seek Professional Help
Consider consulting a paediatric feeding specialist if your baby:
Refuses solids beyond 12 months
Has frequent gagging or choking
Shows very limited variety in diet
Appears underweight or shows signs of nutritional deficiency
Professional support can help you safely expand textures, improve oral motor skills, and reduce stress around mealtimes.
If you’re struggling to get your baby to eat solids, you don’t have to face it alone. Book my Weaning SOS call today to get personalised guidance and step-by-step strategies to help your baby try new foods confidently.
FAQ Section
Q: What age should babies start solids?
A: Most babies start solids around 6 months, gradually moving from purees to soft lumps.
Q: How long does it take for a baby to transition from purees to solids?
A: Every baby is different. Some take weeks; others may take a few months, depending on skills and preferences.
Q: My baby only wants smooth foods. Is this normal?
A: Yes, many babies go through a phase preferring purees. Gentle exposure to textures helps them progress.
Q: When should I see a feeding therapist?
A: If your baby refuses all solids after 12 months, struggles with chewing or swallowing, or shows nutritional concerns, professional support is recommended. Get in touch today if you are worried and need support.