From milk to meals; things to remember when weaning your child.

Weaning is when your baby moves from breastfeeding to other sources of nourishment such as taking solid foods.  As your baby transitions to this stage, it is important to note that every child reacts differently and some might even put up a fight. It is advisable to wean your child at 6 months old after exclusively breastfeeding or formula. Additionally, it should be done over time as the baby and the mother adjust to the change emotionally and physically.

Start by mixing pureed foods with breast milk or formula.

To transition easily try dropping one feeding at a time. Replace this feeding time with pureed foods or snacks. When you have successfully replaced this feeding time you can then proceed to remove other feeding times.

Foods to start weaning with

As you wean your child remember to feed them a balanced diet (carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins) that is essential for their proper health, growth and development. These foods should be pureed and served in small portions. Try feeding them with a small silicon spoon, to avoid choking. At this stage note what foods your child reacts well to and what they may be allergic to.

Taking Care of yourself

Weaning is also tedious to the parent. For breastfeeding mothers, try pumping when your baby is not breastfeeding. For engorged breasts, many women have reported a cold cabbage helped ease the swelling. It is also advised that you share the feeding time with someone else. It might start to weigh on you as your child keeps rejecting the food or bottle.

As babies often get their physical contact when being breastfed, it is important that you provide this contact time even when weaning.

Remember, do not rush it, and pause if you need to.