Introducing solids
Your baby’s first tastes of solid food are a huge learning experience. Here is what you can expect.
Babies experience their highest rate of growth in their first six
months of life. During that time they get the nourishment they need
from breast or infant formula milk.
The Department of Health recommends exclusive breastfeeding for
the first six months of life. All babies are different and develop
at different rates. Your baby may start to show signs they are
ready for weaning earlier than six months. If this is the case and
you think your baby may be ready to start solids, speak to your
healthcare professional who will be able to advise you. Babies
under 17 weeks should not be given solid foods.
By the time your baby is ready to wean, their digestive and
immune systems are more developed and they can sit up and control
their heads.
First tastes and what to expect
Your baby's first tastes are a learning experience rather than a
replacement for milk feeds. At this stage, your baby is discovering
different tastes and textures and learning that, unlike milk, food
does not come in a continuous flow.
Your baby is also getting used to taking food from a spoon.
Don't be surprised if they are not sure what to do or if the food
is spat straight back out to begin with.
Don't force food on your baby either. Your baby may eat five
teaspoons at one feed and very little at the next. This is
completely normal. The idea at this point is to gradually introduce
them to a range of tastes and textures so that they will eventually
join in with family meals. And by giving them a variety of foods
you can ensure their diet is nutritionally balanced too.
Tips for successful weaning
- Relax. Choose a time of day when you are both calm and when
your baby is not too hungry or tired.
- Keep everything clean. Spoon out the amount of food you think
your baby will eat rather than warming a large amount that goes to
waste. When necessary heat food thoroughly, allow it to cool, then
stir and test before offering to your baby. Throw away any food
that has not been eaten.
- Be patient. Your baby is learning to move solid food from the
front of their tongue to the back in order to swallow. This takes
time.
- Try not to worry about mess. Cover the floor with newspaper or
a protective mat. Use a bib to catch spills.
- Stay nearby. Keep an eye on your baby when feeding to make sure
they do not choke.