General Weaning Questions

WEANING IS DEFINED AS ALONG WITH BREASTMILK/ FORMULA MILK SOMETHING ELSE IS OFFERED TO BABY. IT’S ALSO CALLED AS COMPLIMENTARY FOODS.

1. When should I start weaning my baby?(starting solid foods) Weaning starts
   Ans: You should start weaning typically around 6 months of age. This started when babies handle solid foods 
2. What are the signs of readiness for solids?
   Ans: Head control, Sitting ability, interest in food, swallowing skills.
3. Do I need to stop breastfeeding/formula feeding when I start solids?
   Ans: No, you dont stop breastfeeding/ formula feeding.
4. Is there a “right” way to wean?
   Ans: Whichever way the mother chooses as best for herself and her baby is the right way. It should be peaceful for both.
5. How long does the weaning process typically take?
   Ans: Varies from baby to baby.
6. What are common first foods for weaning?
   Ans: Soft, mashed or pureed fruits and vegetables.
7. How do I introduce new foods safely?
   Ans: Firstly , introduce a small amount of food to the baby and see if your child has any problem, such as food allergies.
8. What if my baby doesn’t like the food that’s introduced?
   Ans: Don’t force it. Try again another day or offer a different food. It can take multiple tries for a baby to accept a new taste.
9. How much food should my baby eat?
   Ans: Start with 1-2 teaspoons of pureed foods, offering it once or twice a day. And build up to 6 teaspoons at one time.
10. Could you tell me what equipment is necessary for weaning, and if there are particular materials that are recommended for those items?
    Ans: Highchair, Bibs, soft weaning spoons, Small Bowl
11. How do I know if my baby is choking vs. gagging?
    Ans: Choking is a quiet emergency where the baby may not be able to cough or make any sound. Gagging is often a noisy affair, involving coughing, gurgling, and spitting out food.
12. How do I know if my baby is getting enough nutrients?
    Ans: To know if your baby is getting enough nutrients, pay attention to their weight gain, bowel movement , excretion and overall well being.
13. Can I give my baby salt and sugar?
    Ans: No. Salt and sugar should be avoided during the first two years of a baby’s life.
14. When can my baby have cow’s milk?
    Ans: Breast milk or formula milk recommended for the first year of life. After that, introduce the cow’s milk. 
15. At what age do babies usually wean completely from the breast?
    Ans: Weaning starts 6 months of the baby’s life. After that, introduce solid foods and while continuing to breastfeed for up to 2 years or beyond.