Most infants consume only breast milk or infant formula for the first 4 months, as their digestive systems and jaw and throat muscles are not ready for solid foods. Most healthcare professionals advise starting solid foods between 4 and 6 months of age, when infants can hold their heads up straight when sitting. The first solid food should be single-grain, iron-fortified baby cereal. After the first week, babies eat about four tablespoons of cereal mixed with four tablespoons of liquid twice daily, though babies' appetites can vary day to day. Between 6 and 8 months, other foods can be tried, with one new food introduced every few days to allow the child's system to adjust and to watch for unusual reactions. Single strained or pureed orange vegetables (e.g., squash) should be tried first, followed by green vegetables, and fruits. A baby's stool may change color upon eating new foods, but a skin rash, diarrhea, vomiting, or stuffy nose may be signs of a food allergy. Between 9 and 12 months, lumpy or chopped foods, such as vegetables, strained meats, or cottage cheese, may be introduced. By 1 year, most babies eat small, tender table foods, and cow's milk can be introduced. By 18 months, children are eating most solid foods. This pamphlet includes step-by-step instructions on first aid for a choking infant. (AC)