Mine is 8kg (and just over four months) but he definitely isn't ready for solids. He's just not interested and quite plainly, is happy with his bottle.

One of the other girls posted in a similar vein today about this. Her situation is different to mine though. The six month guideline seems fair enough for most babies but I do know some that have started between four to five months, under the guidance of a health care provider and only then because they seemed to be very ready in more ways than one.

It is definitely not something I would consider with William at present though.

As to whether it's an old wives tale ... I really don't know. One only has to look back at the guidelines on infant feeding to see how much they have varied over the years. All you can do is try to follow the current wisdom on it but be prepared to adapt if the circumstances seem to demand it. I think if your baby is feeding quite happily with breastmilk or formula, it is not really necessary before six months.