It seems like new babies reach milestones faster than new parents can keep up, so you might be wondering when your baby will be ready to start eating solid foods, like rice cereal and baby food. There are a few characteristics to look for in your baby around 3 or 4 months of age. Until this age, your baby gets enough nutrition from breast milk or formula. Remember premature babies sometimes develop later than full-term babies, so their readiness might be delayed. But if your baby can hold his head up unsupported, sit with support and takes an interest in what you're eating - he might follow your fork from your plate to your mouth with his eyes - then he may be ready for solid foods. At this age, your baby might seem hungrier between feedings or take more frequent feedings, and he may seem less satisfied after nursing or taking a bottle. Rice cereal is the most popular and seems to be the safest solid to start.