Starting Solids! Allergens, Baby Led Weanings, and Bath-Worthy Messes!
Up until this point you were trying to nail the feeding, now suddenly- everyone is talking about weaning and solids! What a shift!
Starting solids is an exciting milestone for both you and your baby. Here are some general steps to follow when introducing solid foods to your baby:
1 Wait until your baby is ready: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies should be exclusively breastfed or formula-fed for the first six months of life. After that, they are ready for solid foods. Signs that your baby is ready for solid foods include being able to sit up with support, having good head and neck control, and showing an interest in food by opening their mouth when food is offered.
2 Choose the right time: Choose a time of day when your baby is alert and happy, and make sure they are not too hungry or too full.
3 Start with simple foods: Start with single-ingredient foods, such as rice cereal, pureed fruits or vegetables, or baby oatmeal. Don't add any sugar or salt to your baby's food.
4 Offer small amounts: Start by offering your baby just a small amount of food on a spoon, and gradually increase the amount as they get used to the texture and taste.
5 Watch for signs of readiness: Your baby may turn their head away or spit out the food if they are not ready for it yet. Don't force your baby to eat if they are not interested.
6 Introduce new foods gradually: Introduce new foods one at a time, and wait a few days before introducing another new food. This will help you identify any food allergies or sensitivities.
7 Offer water: Offer your baby a small amount of water in a cup or bottle with meals.
We do suggest someone in the home (preferrably every adult though) knows infant CPR and First aid. Also, educating yourself on how to prepare food for babies, like Solid Starts or using Baby Led Weaning techniques, is very helpful. Babies should not have honey before one.
Making sure baby is seated with good back support, not distracted, and has feet planted with knees at 90 degrees is the optimal eating position. Think about how unstable you feel eating on a barstool!
Balance timing so baby isn’t too full from drinking milk/formula, this way they are motivated to eat.
In the morning is an easy time to practice solids, you can mix breastmilk with baby oatmeal, then change them right out of their PJs afterwards, same with dinnertime right before bath! You can take them right from the highchair over to the tub!
A note on allergens- allergens are supposed to be introduced early and often in small amounts, if parents have severe allergies please consult your pediatrician. Allergen introduction should always start after a conversation with your doctor about readiness.
Remember that every baby is different, and there is no one "right" way to start solids. Trust your instincts, and enjoy this new and exciting stage in your baby's development!
