The statement recommends that breastfeeding continue for at least 12 months and thereafter for as long as mutually desired. Build to a variety of foods. Unlike adults, they do not require variety to secure nutrition during the first six months or so of life. In the first 6 months, water, juice, and other foods are generally unnecessary for breastfed infants. Infants weaned before 12 months of age should not receive cow's milk feedings but should receive iron-fortified infant formula.
Most babies are ready to start supplemental foods at approximately six months of age.
Single-grain cereal is often the first one added. Other single-ingredient foods can be added gradually until the baby is eating a variety of foods. New foods should be added one at a time, at intervals of a few days. This allows the baby to get used to the flavor of the food and can reveal whether a food might not agree with the baby. This should be discussed with the child's doctor.