The journey you and your baby take going from breast milk to solid food could be a rather big step to take, it can be super exciting to try out new flavours and textures! So, weaning is about more than just introducing new foods, to your baby; it’s a great time to bond, explore, and make sure that your baby gets the nutrients they need as they are growing and developing bit by bit every single day.
Now for a lot of people back in the day, this was not a problem, if you grew up in a traditional South African household or even asked your parents about it they would say that we started eating soft pap or pumpkin from 3 months old without having to wean they babies off milk. This is for those parents who want to maybe try a different way by gently and slowly weaning their babies off breastmilk. If that is you, then this might be the right read for you.
When to Start Weaning.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that you exclusively start breastfeeding for the first six months of your baby’s life. After this then you can begin the transition and start introducing solid foods while continuing to breastfeed at the same time. But how do you know when your baby is ready? Here are some signs to look out for:
- Sitting up with minimal support.
- Showing interest in food, like reaching for your plate.
- Able to hold their head steady.
If your baby meets these milestones, it’s time to start the weaning adventure!
Starting Slow: The First Foods
You can start with simple, one ingredient foods. Such as: pureed vegetables, fruits, and porridge or cereal high in iron (finely pureed of course) these are great starting points. Introduce one new food at a time and wait a few days before trying another one. This can also help you to identify any potential allergies your baby could have, and it also gives your baby a chance to enjoy each new flavour.
Try to Make Mealtime Fun and Safe
Baby’s mealtime should be a positive experience for you both. Here are some tips you can try out:
- Staying relaxed: Babies can sense stress and the tenseness you hold, so keeping the mood light helps with this transition.
- Use baby-friendly utensils: Soft silicone-tipped spoons and small bowls like silicone suction bowls are perfect, especially for those fast hands.
- Never force-feed: Let your baby guide the pace and quantity they want to eat if you try to force-feed, they will get overwhelmed, and it will most likely be a traumatic experience for them.
Avoiding Choking Hazards
Safety is a priority during weaning. Avoid foods that are hard, round, or sticky, as they can be choking hazards. Always supervise your baby while eating and ensure they are sitting upright.
Combining Breastmilk with Some Solids
Remember, weaning is a gradual process. Continue to breastfeed while introducing solids, as breast milk remains a crucial source of nutrition during the first year. Gradually, solids will become a more significant part of your baby’s diet. You can even incorporate breastmilk into your baby’s foods such as porridge, formula or water.
Embracing the Mess
Sometimes weaning can be a bit messy, but it is a delightful journey! Allow your baby to explore food with their hands—it’s all part of the learning process. Embrace the spills and splatters as part of the adventure.
How has your weaning journey been so far and what foods does your baby like or dislike?
Share your experiences in the comments below and let’s learn from each other!
Shequila Adams
Digital Marketer