There are several signs an infant displays when he or she is
developmentally ready for other/solid foods.  Reaching out to the table
is one is a long list of other displays of behavior.

When my kids began reaching out to the table at the tender age of 4 mos.
I gave them my spoon.  They were happy for another two months or more.
Other signs that a baby is ready for other/solid foods:
1.  Their tongue thrust reflex has lessened.  If offered food, does
the     baby push it out with his tongue?
2.  Can the baby sit up unassisted?
3.  Does the baby have fine motor control and mouth-to-hand control?
4.  Does the baby watch you intently as you eat your food?
5.  Does the baby imitate your chewing motions?
6.  Is the baby no longer happy with merely watching you eat?

I know there are other signs, such as has the baby recently increased
the frequency of feedings and such, but I've always told parents to
watch the baby, not the clock or calendar.

Heidi S. Roibal, Child Development Specialist
Albuquerque, New Mexico where the bulbs are waking up in their flower
beds.

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