At what age do infants typically begin reaching for food?

Infants typically begin reaching for food around the age of 6 to 8 months. This developmental milestone aligns with their growing motor skills and interest in feeding. By this age, infants have usually developed better hand-eye coordination and can sit up with support, allowing them to actively engage during feeding times.

During the first few months of life, babies are mostly dependent on their caregivers for feeding and do not exhibit the ability to reach for items purposefully. As they approach 6 months, they start to show interest in the foods that adults or older children are eating, often reaching out for those items as they explore their environment. This stage is also when complementary foods are introduced alongside breast milk or formula, further encouraging the infant to reach for food as they learn about different textures and tastes.

Therefore, recognizing this developmental stage helps caregivers understand when to provide appropriate food options and encourages self-feeding, fostering independence and fine motor skill development.