my baby is 4 1/2 months old

Due to current research, the recommendation is to wait until 6 months. Introducing solids earlier increases risks for digestive problems and allergies, and baby's tummy is just not ready to handle solids.

start on the cereals first..start with single grains like rice, then graduate to mixed ones like oatmeal, and ones with fruit. Thin it out alot at first with breast milk or formula, and start making it a bit thicker everyday.
Once your baby gets the notion of how to move it to the back of the mouth and swallow, then you can start on veggies. I always bought the jarred kind, but you can certainly make your own.
I recommend, trying out just one veggie a day, so you will know if there are any allergies. Around 6mths or so, you can start with the jarred meats, (but be warned, they smell like dog food)
Your baby will tell you what he likesvand when he is hungry!

Between 4 and 6 months - it depends on the readiness of your baby.

Does your baby sit up (supported)?
Does your baby open his/her mouth for food while you are eating?
Does your baby seem to be hungry more than every 3-4 hours? Or not filled up after a feeding?

If you answered yes to 2-3 of those your baby is probably ready to start baby cereals but check with your pediatrician at your next appointment first - some babies have medical reasons to not start baby food as early (allergies being the biggest reason to avoid starting baby food too early) - and only your own doctor can help you make such a big decision.

Good luck

when you feel that your child is ready. i started mine at 3 1/2 months because he was showing signs of being ready to start. just make sure you start with very thin cereal, and slowly thicken it so your child gets used to the idea of texture in his mouth, and eating from a spoon.

visit www.wholesomebabyfood.com for advice and ideas!