In general most pediatricians recommend starting solids at 6 months of age as most children are developmentally ready to do so by then.     If your child is already eating rice cereal and tolerating it well then its ok to move on to other ingredients. A good rule of thumb is to give single ingredients at a time for a few days and if your child tolerates them well without problems, then you can feel comfortable mixing them.   So I'd give the applesauce by itself for 2-3 days and then you can feel comfortable mixing them if the child is taking it well.

In answer to Newbie's question:
The right time to switch from formula to whole milk is 12 months of age.   In general infants don't need any specific vitamin supplementation as long as they are eating solids and formula or breastfeeding. The ONE exception is that babies who are solely breastfed MAY need vitamin D supplementation. You should consult your pediatrician to discuss this.   But in the question you posed, NO, your child does not need any specific vitamin supplementation. Just make sure to offer a variety of foods, fruits, vegetables and other items in their diet each day!

Dear Francisca:

The good news about sleep deprivation as a new parent, is that eventually it will get better!   For new mom's (assuming they can stay home with the baby), I suggest adopting the baby's sleeping pattern.   If you are breast feeding, it is best for you to rest and nap during the day (if at all possible).   While an uninterrupted 8 hours of sleep is the golden goal for us all, frequent, smaller periods of sleep can sustain your health.   For new fathers, I suggest being sure that you help the baby's mother by sharing in night time duties. Getting enough rest is impossible unless team work is involved.   It's a good chance for you to work as a "couple team" to be sure neither of you gets too fatigued.  

Dr. Steinbauer

To Hackparent:

Summertime is a great time to spend outdoors with your child....but practicing a few simple tips will keep them safe from the sun.   Avoiding sun exposure between the hours of 10 to 3 pm when the suns rays are strongest helps minimize exposure. Young infants will benefit from the use of light protective clothing and small caps with a wide brim to help shield their faces from sun exposure.   Try baseball caps in boys or a small sunvisor or hat in young girls as well.   You can also use a baby sunblock with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for your child's skin. These are usually very mild and nonirritating to the skin. Avoid ones that contain PABA as these can irritate sensitive young skin.   Look for at LEAST spf 15 or higher and reapply often, especially after swimming or sports where water or sweat may wash the product away and decrease its effectiveness. Be sure to apply it liberally and reapply often...and have a great summer!