It sounds simple, but it can be confusing to know when to wean your baby, what to feed them and where to start! Weaning your little one from exclusive milk onto foods takes a lot of patience from both you and your baby.
In the same way as most stages of parenting, every baby is unique and the time they’re ready to begin weaning might differ. Most expert advice agrees that you should wait until your little one is around six months old before weaning. But, it's good to spend some time over the next few weeks getting everythig ready.
At six-months-old, your baby's nutrient needs will begin to outpace what breast milk or formula alone can provide. This is the ideal time to introduce solid foods into their diet. It is recommended to start slowly by offering one meal of solid food per day.
You can choose to do this during breakfast, lunch, or dinner, whichever time works best for you and your baby's routine.
Signs They’re Ready to Start Weaning
There are a few signs to look out for to show that your little one is ready to start weaning:
- Sitting up unaided- The first important thing to look out for is that your little one can sit up straight on their own without having to be held up.
- Holding their head up- To make sure they can move their hands up towards their mouth and face to eat, you'll want your little one to be comfortable holding their head up and moving it from side to side on their own.
- Curiosity about what everyone else is eating- Has your little one recently started eyeing up your dinner? You might think it's just them wanting what you have, but it could well be a sign that they're getting ready to eat solid foods.
Finding The Right Weaning Method
When it comes to weaning, you have two main approaches: baby-led weaning and traditional weaning. Each method has its benefits and the decision ultimately depends on what you and your baby are comfortable with.
Baby-Led Weaning: This approach encourages letting your baby explore solid foods independently. Offer age-appropriate finger foods that are soft, easy to grasp, and safe to eat without the need for teeth.
Traditional Weaning: In traditional weaning, parents or caregivers gradually introduce pureed or mashed foods to their baby.
To ensure a smooth transition onto solid foods, it's important to be prepared. Check out these essential things you’ll need to help you get ready for weaning next month.
Introducing Allergens to Your Baby
Introducing common allergens to your little one can be a cause for concern among parents but research suggests that introducing these foods early may reduce the risk of developing allergies later in life. Before weaning next month, take some time to consider how you'll introduce these foods. Common allergens include peanuts, eggs, dairy, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.
When introducing allergens, consider the following tips:
- Introduce them one at a time: Introduce each allergenic food separately and wait for a few days before introducing another. This allows you to observe any potential reactions.
- Start with a small amount: Begin with a tiny quantity of the allergenic food and gradually increase the serving if there is no adverse reaction.
- Watch for reactions: Keep an eye out for any signs of allergies, such as rashes, hives, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any unusual symptoms, take your little one to your local A&E immediately.
Knowing What to Expect With Weaning
Weaning is a process of exploration and it's key to be patient with your little one. At first, they may only take a few small bites or play with the food rather than eating it. This behaviour is entirely normal and part of the learning experience.
Be prepared for a lot of mess! It can help to invest in some good wearable bibs for your little one and some sheets to cover the floor around their high chair if you’re worried about stains as you prepare for weaning. As they get used to the taste and texture of solid foods, the amount they’re eating will gradually increase. Trust your baby's instincts and allow them to dictate their appetite.