Is my baby ready for solids?

Problem: Your baby suddenly demands more bottle or breast feeds

Solution: Your baby might simply need more milk, so first try to increase the number or length of feeds for at least a week. If your little one still seems dissatisfied, it might be time to introduce solids, unless there is another rational explanation, like teething or stress in the family.

Problem: Everyone says baby is old enough to start solids

Solution: This is an inaccurate indicator! Most babies don’t need solids before six months, although there are exceptions – both younger and older. Milk is food, don’t forget. You must let baby take the lead in this one; it is his tummy, after all!

Problem: Baby is teething

Solution:Teething often precedes interest in solid food – maybe because there is some connection! Once a few have sprouted, your little one will start chewing. Late teethers may well start with food later.

Problem: Baby shows interest in your food

Solution: This will seldom happen before baby is ready to eat. Sometimes it’s more about the sensation of squelching food between the fingers, but eating is always more than just physical nutrition, so allow some measure of exploration at mealtimes. Do be careful not to give baby seasoned foods at this tender stage.

Your quick guide to the how and when of weaning:
 

• Offer first foods between milk feeds, when baby is a little hungry but not ravenous and is in a good, inquisitive mood.
• Between 10am and 2pm is the most optimal digestive time for first meals.
• Offer only one to two teaspoons or cubes at a time, and wait to see if over the next day there are any adverse reactions.
• Increase amounts slowly, maybe by one teaspoon or cube a day every three to five days, until baby indicates that you should settle at a specific amount.
• Introduce new foods one at a time so that you can readily identify problem foods and adverse reactions.
• Add a second meal after about four to six weeks, and a third meal from six to eight weeks later.

Starting solids: What should my baby eat?

 

solids, baby, weaning, first foods, fussy eaters