Tips for starting weaning
Tips for starting weaning
07:00 (GMT+2), Fri, 19 October 2012
So before you even put that first spoonful into your baby’s mouth, be aware of the top tips for successful weaning:
- Make sure your baby is ready. Pushing a young, reluctant baby will make the start of the weaning process upsetting for you both.
- Babies sometimes find the process a little clinical and become upset when mealtimes no longer involve the comfort of sucking milk. When offering your baby her very first taste or two, you may find it easier to hold her on your lap, as this will help her feel loved and secure.
- When babies feed from the breast or bottle, they instinctively push their tongue forwards. Now your baby needs to learn to keep her tongue at the back of her mouth. If she can’t get on with a spoon, try dipping a clean finger in the pureé and let her suck your finger for the first few mouthfuls.
- Laugh, smile, sing, and taste your baby’s food at mealtimes- she’ll want to join in the fun by copying you and wanting it herself.
- Avoid feeding your baby when she’s tired, irritable, or very hungry. At these times, she’ll want one thing only – milk.
- Don’t get too hung up about portion sizes or nutrients. If the food is wholesome and fresh and she’s taking a little, you’ve done well.
- Try not to compare your baby with others. All babies develop at their own speed and take to different foods at different stages. It is no reflection on their intelligence or abilities.
Annabel's weaning recipesAnnabel Karmel, weaning, solids