Can you give solids before the tongue-thrust reflex is gone?
⚡ Short answer: The tongue-thrust reflex typically fades around 4-6 months.
Anonymous
bir anne · Feeding
When I bring the spoon to his mouth, he pushes it away with his tongue. What happens if I start solids before this reflex goes away?
Maiyko AI ADVISOR
The real reply from the in-app AI advisor
The tongue-thrust reflex typically fades around 4-6 months. If you start solids before this reflex is gone, baby's tongue will push the spoon and its contents back out; he'll struggle to swallow the food or puree and it will dribble from his mouth — he won't get enough nutrition. Plus, this forces both you and baby, creating negative feelings about solids.
Another reason we don't start solids before the reflex fades is aspiration risk (food entering the airway). As baby's tongue tries to push back, there can be an unintended swallow-cough imbalance. So waiting until baby can take food in his mouth without pushing it out with his tongue — usually around 5-6 months naturally — is the healthiest approach.
⚕️ Health note: This answer is for general information only; it is not medical advice. Every baby is different — for decisions about your baby's health, consult your pediatrician.
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