How to Wean Your Baby

Weaning Your Baby: A Simple Guide

Weaning your baby – it's a big step! It takes patience, and each baby is different. This guide will help you through it.

When's My Baby Ready?

When should you start? Doctors used to say six months. Now, they say around six months, but only if your baby can:

• Sit up (with a little help).
• Hold their head steady.
• Show interest in your food. Do they reach for it? Lean in when you eat?
• Their tongue isn't pushing food out anymore. That reflex fades.

Important: Always check with your doctor first! They know your baby best. Preemies have different timelines.

How to Wean: Different Ways

There are a few ways to wean. Find what works for you and your baby.

1. Baby-Led Weaning (BLW): Give your baby soft, small pieces of food. They feed themselves! This helps them learn to eat and like different foods.
2. Purees: Start with smooth purees, then make them chunkier as they get better at chewing. It's easier at first, but takes more prep.
3. Mix it up! Combine both methods. Be flexible!

There’s no perfect way. Try different things and see what your baby likes.

Introducing Solids: Step by Step

Okay, you've chosen a method and talked to your doctor. Now what? Start with simple things like purees or soft foods. Watch for any reactions – allergies or tummy troubles. Good first foods are iron-fortified cereal, sweet potatoes, avocados, and cooked carrots.

Remember these tips:

• One new food at a time. This helps you spot allergies.
• Wait 2-3 days between new foods.
• Start small. A teaspoon or two is enough at first.
• No added salt, sugar, or honey. They're not good for babies.
• Offer lots of different tastes and textures!

Troubleshooting

It's not always easy. Here are some common problems:

• They refuse solids? Don't stress. Keep offering food in a fun way. Some babies take longer.
• Messy eating? Totally normal! It's part of learning.
• Allergies? Look for rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, or breathing problems. Call the doctor right away if you're worried.
• Constipation? Make sure they drink enough and eat lots of fruits and veggies.

Breastfeeding or Formula?

Breast milk or formula is still the most important food for a while. Keep offering it as much as your baby wants. Solids are extra, not a replacement.

As they eat more solids, they might drink less milk. That's okay. Slowly decrease the amount of milk over time.

Ready to Wean Completely?

This should be slow and based on your baby's cues. Look for these signs:

• They don't seem interested in milk anymore.
• They eat a good variety of solids and are getting enough nutrition.
• They can feed themselves well.

Don't rush! Follow your baby's lead. If you're unsure, talk to your doctor.

It's a Journey!

Weaning is a big step towards independence. Be patient, loving, and flexible. Celebrate every little victory! Enjoy this special time with your baby.