Weaning is a big milestone—for both baby and parent. It marks the beginning of your little one’s journey into a world of flavors, textures, and independent eating. But with all the advice out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Here’s a practical, reassuring guide on when to start, what foods to offer, and how to make this transition a positive experience.
When Is the Right Time to Start Weaning?
Most babies are ready to begin complementary feeding at around 6 months of age. By this time, breast milk or formula still provides the bulk of nutrition, but solid foods begin to fill nutritional gaps—especially for iron and zinc.
Signs your baby may be ready:
Can sit up with minimal support
Shows good head and neck control
Reaches for food or watches others eat with interest
Opens mouth when offered a spoon
Has lost the tongue-thrust reflex (doesn’t push food out automatically)
🕒 Starting before 4 months is not recommended, and after 6 months, delays can increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies.
What Foods Can You Introduce First?
Start with single-ingredient, soft foods that are easy to digest and unlikely to cause allergies.
Great first foods include:
Vegetables: Steamed and mashed carrots, sweet potatoes, peas, pumpkin
Fruits: Mashed banana, avocado, cooked apple or pear puree
Iron-rich foods: Fortified baby cereals (like oats or rice cereal), mashed lentils, or puréed meats
Grains: Soft-cooked rice, oats, or suji (semolina) porridge
🌿 Introduce one food at a time, waiting 2–3 days before adding another to watch for any allergic reactions.
Textures Matter: How to Progress
6–7 months: Purees and mashed foods
7–8 months: Thicker mashes and soft lumps
8–9 months: Soft finger foods like boiled veggies, scrambled eggs, or toast sticks
9–12 months: Coarser textures and family meals (with less salt/spice)
💧 Offer sips of cooled, boiled water in a small cup along with solids.
Tips for a Smooth Weaning Experience
Stay relaxed: It’s a learning curve, not a race. Some days baby will eat more than others—and that’s normal.
Keep offering: It can take multiple tries (10–15 times!) before a baby accepts a new food.
Minimize distractions: No screens, no rushing—just you, your baby, and the food.
Include iron-rich options daily after 6 months, especially if you’re breastfeeding.
Avoid salt, sugar, honey (before 1 year), whole nuts, and choking hazards like raw carrots or grapes.
What About Allergens?
Introduce common allergens (like peanuts, eggs, dairy, wheat) one at a time and early—ideally between 6–12 months. Doing so may actually reduce the risk of developing food allergies.
Final Thought: This Is Just the Beginning
Weaning isn’t just about food—it’s about exploration, independence, and bonding over mealtime. There will be messes, faces of disgust, and enthusiastic grabs for your plate—but it’s all part of the journey.
Be patient, stay flexible, and celebrate every tiny bite!
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