Weaning - What and When
Weaning your baby can be exciting, rewarding and sometimes frustrating. It's a really important part of your baby's development so don't rush it, go at your baby's pace and above all, make it as enjoyable as possible.
The advice on our website is written by our Nutritionist Annie Seeley. It's based on government guidelines and Annie's experience working with parents, and not least with her one year old daughter, Lana.
When
The ideal is to wean your baby around 6 months. This is because up until this age most babies get all the nutrients they need from milk. Be led by your own baby's needs. Some babies are ready to be weaned before 6 months. Look for signs that your baby may be ready to start solids, and if you think they are, talk to your health visitor, GP, community nutritionist/dietician.
Some of the signs that your baby is ready for solids are when they:
Can sit up assisted
Hold their head well
Hold objects and put them in their mouth
Picks up food and puts it in their mouth
Chew on hands, toys and other objects
Show an interest in food
Have been drinking the same amount of milk for a while and even if you increase milk feeds over a few days your baby is waking in the night or after naps, hungry or is still hungry after feeds.Feeding
It is widely agreed that the first 'solid' food should be some kind of baby rice. This should be made up with breast or formula milk. Cows and goats milk are good for adults but do not contain enough vitamins and minerals for a developing baby.