What statement by a mother indicates the need for further teaching about introducing solid foods to her 4-month-old?

The statement about starting home-prepared orange juice at 3 months indicates the need for further teaching because introducing any form of juice, including orange juice, is not recommended until at least 12 months of age. Prior to this age, infants primarily require breast milk or formula, which provide all the essential nutrients they need for growth and development. Introducing juice too early can lead to various issues, including unnecessary calories, potential digestive upsets, and an increased risk of dental caries.

In contrast, beginning with rice cereal around 4-6 months is a common practice, as it introduces iron and is easy for infants to digest. The understanding of introducing one food at a time reflects a good approach to identifying food allergies and gauging the infant's acceptance of new flavors. Waiting until 6 months to introduce meats aligns with recommended feeding practices, as the infant’s digestive system is generally more mature and better equipped to handle protein sources at this age.