Mealtime milestones from 6 to 12 months

Your baby's first year of eating is a rapid run of little milestones. Rough guides (every baby's own timing varies):

• Around 6 months: sitting with support, bringing objects to mouth, raking food into the palm. First tastes begin.
• 7–8 months: the palmar grasp sharpens; baby holds a piece of food and gnaws with more purpose. Interest in your food ramps up.
• 9–10 months: the pincer grip arrives — finger and thumb pick up small pieces like peas. A game-changer for self-feeding.
• 10–12 months: attempts with a spoon (chaotic but important), drinking from an open cup with help, and a wider range of textures.

Every one of these is practised through messy trial and error — the drops, smears and misses are the reps. Your job is to keep it safe, unhurried and low-pressure. Dress for the mess, catch what falls, and let the milestones come.

If your baby isn't showing readiness signs or you have any concerns, check in with your Plunket nurse or GP.