Weaning
Why, when and
what to give to
my baby?
When?
6 months
vs
4 months
How do you know if your baby is ready to
start solid foods?
1
2
3
4
Have good head
and neck control
and can sit
upright when
supported.
Show an interest
in food
Reach out for
your food.
Open their mouth
when offered
food on a spoon.
How?
Learning takes time, so be patient with
your baby.
Babies learn by watching their family
eat (same foods as the rest of the
family)
Offer your baby foods that are the right
texture
12m
9m
Textures
6m
How?
• The aim will be: to be eating family meals by 12 months of age.
• If your baby does not seem interested in eating or trying new
foods, wait a few days and try again.
• If your baby is having feeding problems discuss this with your
doctor or dietitian.
In what order should solid foods be
introduced?
• Solid foods can be introduced in any order.
• Iron rich foods should be included around six months of age :
(fortified) cereals, meats, poultry, fish, well cooked egg, tofu
and legumes (such as chick peas).
Allergens:
Yes or no?
• Introduce one common
allergy causing food at
each meal.
• Unless your baby has an
allergic reaction to the
food, continue giving the
food regularly (twice
weekly)
Prevention from
choking
• Do not give babies foods with small
hard pieces (raw apple or carrot,
whole or chopped nuts)
• Grate, cook, puree or mash hard
fruits or vegetables.
• Use smooth nut butters/pastes
• Give suitable finger foods for babies
• Always supervise