Baby Weaning Advice (Inspired by Ava Neyer)

Baby Weaning Advice

(inspired by Ava Neyer)

http://www.today.com/moms/exhausted-new-moms-hilarious-take-expert-sleep-advice-goes-viral-6C9559908

Babies should be weaned as soon as they are ready for food. This can be any time from four months. Health experts advise that babies should not be weaned before six months.

Ideal first foods for baby are apple, pear, peach and banana. Sweeter vegetables and fruit will get a better reception from baby as they usually refuse bitter foods. Do not start baby on sweet foods as he will become addicted to sugar and will never accept savoury food.

Gradually reduce the amount of milk given to baby so that he is more inclined to eat solid food. But don’t reduce milk intake too much or baby will become malnourished.

Cow’s milk and tap water can be given to babies from six months onward. All milk should still be breast or formula milk and all water should be boiled and cooled. Dairy products are not suitable for children under 12 months. Cheese and yoghurt are fine.

Good foods for babies are pasta shapes, dried apricots and grapes. Do not give baby anything that he could choke on.

Babies’ food should be pureed at first, as they lack the reflex to swallow food and need to learn it gradually. You can start them on carrot sticks, pitta bread and pieces of apple.

Try to make mealtimes a positive experience. Do not worry about the mess. Do not praise baby for eating. If he eats just to please you he will have an eating disorder in later life.

Baby should be seated in a high chair at the table. There is no need to buy an expensive high chair. A high chair should have a gas lift function, 360 rotate, detachable tray, comfortable padded seat and a recline option.

Baby should learn that eating is a social activity. Baby will not feed well with too many distractions. Baby should join in with the family’s evening meal. This should not be allowed to interfere with baby’s bedtime.

Diluted fruit juice is an ideal drink for babies. But don’t give baby too much juice or it will put him off his food and he will eventually starve.

Food pouches contain nutritionally balanced meals for babies that have to meet stringent regulations, but they must only be used in emergencies. If you love your baby you will spend eight hours a week pureeing varied combinations of good-quality organic food from Waitrose.

Above all, enjoy weaning and don’t get stressed. If your baby picks up on your stress, he might not eat at all until he is twelve. Good luck!

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My secret weapon for weaning- Mummy's apron! Offers overall coverage (plus it ties her to the seat).