Exclusive breastfeeding if possible is recommended for the first 6 months of life, as it provides all the essential nutrients a newborn needs. Formula feeding can be given in case of insufficient mother’s milk. After 6 months, milk alone is no longer sufficient to support a child’s rapid growth and development. This is when complementary feeding should begin. Complementary feeding can be safely started around 5 to 6 months if the child shows signs of readiness, such as good head control, the ability to sit with support, and interest in food. Begin with soft, mashed, or pureed foods like rice, dal, or khichdi. Over time, expand the diet to include a variety of food groups—grains, pulses, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and protein sources like eggs or meat. To ensure safety, avoid foods that are hard or round and pose a choking hazard, such as whole nuts.