Mastering The Weaning Stages

Ah, weaning! It's a stage in motherhood I dread to cover almost as much as the task itself, Why?!  Because there is no right way to go begin no preferred way it all depends solely on each child and mother and each families dynamic.

Some will love every step and some children will have no interest at all. That bittersweet milestone in a baby's life that brings both excitement and anxiety to moms everywhere. As your little one starts to explore the world of solids, there are bound to be some hilarious moments, unexpected challenges, and a whole lot of love. In this blog post, we'll dive into the wonderful world of weaning, offering relatable advice and sprinkling it with a dash of humour to keep things light-hearted. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine) and let's embark on this wild journey together!

Transitiong From Breast To Bottle Feeding

First I would like to add some tricks for babies that have been started on the breast and for whatever reasons whether is it returning to work or something as simple as only planning to nurse for a few months now you want to introduce the bottle

~ Start with Familiarity: Introduce the bottle gradually by using breast milk instead of formula. This will help your baby associate the bottle with the familiar taste and smell of breast milk. Let them explore and get used to a bottle before you ever actually need them to take it, the earlier the introduction the easier the transition.

~ Reducing breastfeeding sessions: Gradually replace breastfeeding at breakfast lunch and dinner with solids or bottles while ensuring adequate nutrition. One Tip I have is don't be afraid to cut the feeds shorter during these times and use a distraction to soothe the baby if needed, it will give you a little more control rather than allowing the baby to start and stop as they please if they seem uninterested and tend to be “messing” while nursing take that as a chance to try to offer the bottle or suitable food option instead.

~ Try to reduce the feed/bottle that baby uses more as a comfort last, usually the morning or before bed, I used these stages as the time to start our morning and bedtime routines. Snacks, drinks(water or a sugar-free suitable juice are the only 2 options I would give and teeth brushing becomes even more important at this stage if you haven't already started that process now is the time to introduce it), bath, toilet/nighttime pull-up, teeth and jammies, story, teddy, cuddles and a quick chat (you will be surprised how much your little one will tell you just to keep you in that room an extra few minutes) some of my best information about my children came from our bedtime chats.

~ Temperature Matters: Mimic the temperature of breast milk by warming the bottle slightly before offering it to your baby. Check the temperature by placing a few drops on your wrist to ensure it's not too hot.

~ Experiment with Nipple Types: Babies have different preferences for nipple shapes and sizes. Try different nipple types to find the one that your baby responds to best. Some babies prefer a slow-flow nipple, while others may need a faster flow. Trial and error is a big thing when it comes to, not only finding a bottle baby-like but also the formula.

These were two things I had no clue about, None of the ones that “ were similar to breast” style worked with my youngest and I had to make sure it was one of the slowest flows they had even as he got used to it there was only one he would drink from and I had to pierce an extra hole in the top to allow more milk through... The formula was another battle he couldn't handle any formula other than goat's milk formula until he was over the year too much lactose caused extra mucus build up and many nights I spent sitting with him asleep upright on my chest so he could breathe better through the trial and error stage. There are no quick fixes for this one but I would recommend talking to someone in your family who already has older children as your child will probably benefit from whatever worked best for their little ones. (Genetics and the good old-fashioned “village”)

Always keep in mind bottle flow is a lot different to what the baby is used to with the breast and sometimes sitting them up slightly and tilting the bottle at an angle can slow the pace giving the baby more time to adjust to the speed.

~ Minimize Distractions: Find a calm and quiet environment to offer the bottle. Babies can become easily distracted, so reducing external stimuli can help them focus on feeding. That being said Sometimes distraction can be a good thing it can take babies' minds off the differences long enough to realise their getting their milk and they will happily settle in to feed.  Again in case I haven't said it enough😅 Every baby is different what worked for one may work differently for others.

~ This is not one that you will find recommended by many professional sources and I'm sure there are reasons behind that but none that I have ever heard of or found to be reason enough not to try “desperate times and all that” presuming your baby is over the 3-month mark I would add a taste of apple sauce or sugar-free jam to the teeth (now I mean taste that you can hardly see) this distraction is sometimes all it takes to get baby to get some milk and realise milk is milk. I would never recommend adding anything other than formula into baby bottles and always talk to your healthcare providers before doing so. 

~ Emotional support: Be prepared for potential emotional challenges during the weaning process and plenty of comfort and reassurance for  YOU and your baby.

Involve Others: Sometimes, babies resist taking a bottle from their primary caregiver. Enlist the help of a partner, family member, or friend to offer the bottle. Babies may be more willing to accept it from someone else. I talked about this in another blog post with my youngest son and sometimes this is a huge help when the baby is worked up and mum is stressed and worried.

Never wait until the baby is too hungry to try to get them to take the bottle (bottle flow and a crying baby are just recipe for disaster). Babies can sense when you are worried or stressed and sometimes it personally feels like they just won't do it because you want them to, take a step baby and let someone else try and if they still show no interest then try again later down the line (yes I know making bottles and nursing a growing toddler can be challenging, I wish I could give a quick fix but some are just happy to stick to the bottle or breast and this can be where us mums need the comfort and reassurance). If there are older children around let baby see them eating and drinking from “big girl/boy bowls and cups, let them join you in their highchairs at the table even when they aren't eating or when you are preparing the meals. Put some suitable options on their trays and just see what they do. Never try to accomplish these goals when you or your baby are extra hungry, sleepy, unwell or cranky it's just a recipe for emotional disasters.

They will try and they will Eat when they are ready.

I'm yet to see an adult walking around with a bottle or still nursing although I'm sure it does happen behind closed doors somewhere, they were probably the ones who didn't get to choose when they were ready and the same ones that now stop to have a good glare at you when you are trying to nurse your baby. 😅

my oldest showed very little interest in food until he was over the year he would play with it and sometimes he would eat it, he hated being spoon-fed or being anywhere near him when he was eating and would always look for a feed afterwards, when he was ready he was just ready. He was too busy during the day and would only look for milk at bedtime or if he got hurt (you become more of a pacifier after they turn one), to this day he is a snacker, all day he grabs foods to go and still uses his hands or plays with his food with his fork if you watch him eat a meal. He has a lot of texture issues (everything was sozzy which meant a number of diffrent things e.g peel/spicy/bits/or just different and not always bad. we should add mind readers to our lists of skills), I was constantly worried and aware of how I was dealing with food or if he was getting enough sustenance and never making a big deal out of not finishing a meal or trying new foods,

***Very few children would starve themselves by choice unless there was a medical/development condition/role. If you do have concerns talk to your practitioner. 

Just imagine trying to sit still and eat a meal while being completely amazed by a whole new world of endless possibilities. It can be a stressful and worrying time and I have no magic solution, like most other things in motherhood it's different for every child, just remember how you handle introducing foods can have an impact on their relationships with food as they get older... Make it a fun experience

Must-Have For Babies:

1. A variety of different foods starting of with single food options think: Iron-rich foods: Include iron-fortified cereals, pureed meats, and legumes like lentils or beans to support your baby's growing needs. 

2.Fruits and Vegetables: Introduce a variety of mashed or pureed fruits and vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, avocados, bananas, peas, carrots, and applesauce.

3.Whole Grains: Introduce soft, cooked grains like rice, oats, and quinoa to provide essential nutrients and fibre.

4. Dairy Products or Suitable Dairy substitutes Once your baby is ready, include small amounts of plain, unsweetened yoghurt or cheese for calcium and healthy fats.

5.Protein Sources: Gradually introduce mashed or pureed cooked eggs, tofu, and finely shredded or mashed fish or poultry to provide protein.

6. Silicone or wooden bowls and utensils and sippy cups or non-slip or spill cups/beakers if you can get the ones that stick to a baby highchair (also recommended) then go for that option. I have linked a few of my personal favourites but search for options that best suit your needs, I also recommend investing in clothes covers or bibs to save on those blueberry and spaghetti sauce Stains that simply won't budge( one word **napisan**). A hand blender is another must-have and worthwhile purchase. 

Best to Avoid for Babies:

1. Honey: Avoid giving honey to babies under one year old as it may contain harmful bacteria that their digestive system cannot handle.

2. Choking Hazards: Avoid small, hard foods like nuts, popcorn, grapes, and raw carrots until your baby develops the ability to chew and swallow safely. Keep in mind the size of a dime, then ensure any foods are 1/2 or 1/4  that size. Never leave baby unsupervised at any stage during meal times and also ensure they are sitting upright. Also, keep a close eye on any older siblings as they will be inclined to give the baby some of their food which can be dangerous, it is worthwhile having a talk about what is safe and who is allowed to give the baby food if you also have a toddler or young child.

3. Added Salt and Sugar: Minimize or avoid adding salt or sugar to your baby's food. Babies have delicate taste buds and do not need extra seasoning what may appear bland to us is full of new flavours and textures, A lot of foods have natural sugars and sodium so baby doesnt need any extras added.

4. Cow's Milk: Avoid cow's milk as a primary drink until your baby turns one year old. Breast milk or formula should be their main source of nutrition. When making any cereals or grains the required milk added should be made with breast milk or formula. Unpasteurized milk, yoghurts and cheese are also best to be avoided until the baby is over the year mark.

5. Allergenic Foods: Introduce highly allergenic foods like peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, eggs, and wheat gradually and under the guidance of your paediatrician to monitor any potential allergic reactions.

6. Trail and Error baby will not have the same taste as you so have patentice and avoid trying to force baby to eat foods they don't want or don't enjoy. This is an experience and trying is important but it is also one of the first steps your child will take into their sense of self discovery developing a sense of their own likes and dislikes (and just like all the rest it can be frustrating for us moms) but here is where we learn to adapt to our Childs need like the day they will want to wear their wellies when the sun is shining or the day they just don't feel like wearing matching clothes… Patience, Perseverance and Re-evaluating what's really important, often that is motherhood. 

Remember, every baby is unique, so it's crucial to consult with your paediatrician before introducing new foods or making any significant changes to your baby's diet. Always be aware if you or other members of the baby's family have dietary necessities or developmental conditions baby may also have the same or similar issues.

tip** In the early stages of the weaning process babies do not eat for nourishment, they are still getting this from Mom or formula, it’s the tastes, textures,flavour and smell of the experience so don’t worry too much if the baby is showing no interest and just plays with the food**

A List Of Must-Haves And Best To Avoids For Weaning Baby

Different Stages of Weaning and Appropriate Food Suggestions:

(Around 4-6 months): The "Picky Eater" Phase:

Picture this: you lovingly prepare a delicious meal for your little one, and everyone is gathered to watch this “first” Oh the excitement?! only for them to scrunch up their face and spit it straight back out. Welcome to the "picky eater" phase, where every meal becomes an experiment in trial and error. From the triumphant moments of discovering their newfound love for mashed avocado to the epic battles with broccoli, moms know that each mealtime is an adventure. Embrace the mess, the funny faces, and the occasional food fights, because these memories will bring laughter and joy in the years to come.

Most professionals say to wait until the baby is 6 months when they are showing signs they are interested, in some cases, baby may be ready as early as 4-5 months.

This is when you start to introduce solids in some shape or form to your baby

Usually, one food at a time to watch out for how the baby responds or any reaction the baby may have. Always keeping track of the foods as this makes it easier to tell which foods don't agree.  Pureed fruits (e.g., mashed banana, applesauce), are the first ones or a specifically tailored baby rice. Nothing with a strong flavour and avoid adding sugar or salt to any of the babies' meals. A baby's taste buds are extremely sensitive and what might taste bland to an adult will not taste that way to a baby. Vegetables (e.g., mashed sweet potatoes, carrots), and single-grain cereals (e.g., rice or oatmeal cereal) are also great options. there are so many options available these days but always ensure you are reading the labels and the additives. If I had to recommend one that I found a great option for on the go it would be the Ellas kitchen pouches. I will always say to try to avoid processed food, especially in the beginning there is so much salt and other preservatives in the food to keep them fresh for longer that we don't know what we are feeding our children. Yes I know great when you are tired and worn out and hungry yourself, the last thing you feel like doing is cooking from scratch and balance and moderation are keywords.

  We're giving the Introduction to new tastes and textures, building a foundation for healthy eating habits.  My mother always said “It takes 3 tries to know for sure whether or not you like a food” If the baby declines try something different and a few days later try again and they may change their minds. If not move on there are enough foods out there that provide all the goodness a baby needs.

Over on our Mom Matters Pinterest, we have pinned a wide collection of food suggestions for all stages and ages.

There is potential for resistance to new flavours or textures, increased time and effort for preparation. Some babies will show interest a lot earlier than 6 months and won’t seem satisfied with just milk or seem to understand the concept of spoon-to-mouth

(Around 6-8 months): The "Food as a Fashion Statement" Trend

Who knew that pureed carrots could double as a fabulous accessory? As you introduce new foods, get ready for your little ones to wear their meals with pride. From spaghetti hairdos to yoghurt-covered ears, mealtime fashion becomes a thing. Embrace the mess and relish the opportunity to capture these adorable moments on camera. Your baby's food fashion statements are not only Instagram-worthy but also a testament to their creativity and exploration.

 - Recommended foods: Mashed or finely chopped fruits, vegetables, and well-cooked meats, such as chicken or fish. I use to dish out a plate of veg and potatoes, whatever food was for dinner and blend it for my sons before I added salt to the meal. Always keep in mind foods that cause you gas or belly ache will probably do the same to baby so it’s best to avoid those foods. Allow babies to have bite-size pieces to feed themselves and experience the difference in textures, it’s an extremely messy process but it is very important for babies' development stages, I used to find giving them a bowl of oats made with formula or breastmilk close to bedtime always helped them to settle better through the night. (if they were still waking up to feed a lot at this stage and especially through growth spurts).

 At this stage we are giving Increased variety and exposure to different food groups, development of chewing skills and hand eye coordination.

Risk of choking if textures are not appropriately modified, potential food allergies or sensitivities. Always watch baby while they are eating never leave them unattended I know how tempting it can be to turn your back for a minute while they are safely in their highchair, but I have heard of one too many choking instances in my time. I can't stress this enough think of the sizes of a baby's airway and ensure Any finger food is half or quarter the size. 

3. Stage 3 (Around 8-10 months): The "Ninja Skills" of Spoon Dodging

You may think you've mastered the art of feeding your baby, but they have a few tricks up their tiny sleeves. Enter the spoon-dodging technique, where your little one becomes an expert in evading each spoonful of food you lovingly offer. It's as if they possess a sixth sense, knowing exactly when to turn their head or strategically close their little mouth. But fear not, we too are equipped with lighten-speed mom skills!😅

Tip** Always have an extra spoon to hand one for you and one for baby to mimic with as you try to get as much food as possible in. Pouches do come in handy again at this stage where they just want to do it themselves. Patience and a sense of humour can turn this battle of wills into a game of laughter and persistence.

- Recommended foods: Soft finger foods like small pieces of cooked vegetables, soft fruits, and pasta. Introduction of dairy products like yoghurt and cheese.

 This stage Encourages self-feeding and fine motor skills, exposure to different textures and flavours.

  And yes expect an Increased mess during self-feeding, the potential for food rejection due to preferences and their developing a sense of self, their own likes and dislikes and simply the fact they are learning the word No has a lot of power, is easy to mimic and has an effect. Fun Times.

The "I'll Eat Anything That's Not Baby Food" Phase

Just when you've resigned yourself to the idea that your baby will only eat mashed bananas forever, they surprise you by reaching for your plate of spaghetti. Welcome to the phase where everything you eat becomes their new culinary obsession. Suddenly, baby food is a big no-no, and they demand to have a taste of whatever you're having. It's both amusing and heartwarming to witness their curiosity and desire to explore new flavours. Just make sure to keep an eye on those spicy foods!

Words of Wisdom and Final Thoughts:

- Patience is key: Every baby is unique, and the weaning process may vary in duration and ease. Be patient and sensitive to your baby's cues.

- Offer a variety of foods: Introduce a wide range of flavours, textures, and nutrients to help your baby develop a diverse palate and adapt to different foods.

- Consult with a paediatrician: Seek guidance from your child's healthcare provider to ensure your baby's nutritional needs are met and to address any concerns or questions you may have.

Weaning is an exciting and crucial phase in your baby's growth. It is one of the first times baby can do something independently and the first mess they can make alone embrace it and in 15 years time when you enter your kitchen one morning you are certain you left spotless the night before only now looks like you've been burgled (by very messy and hungry thieves who ate today's lunch) you will think back to this moment and find the humour in the then teenage stage. Remember, it's not just about nourishing your baby's growing body; it's about creating a healthy relationship with food that will last a lifetime. So, moms, enjoy this wild and hilarious ride called weaning and remember that sometimes, the messiest moments are the most beautiful ones. By understanding the different stages of weaning, the differences between weaning off a bottle and breast, and providing appropriate food suggestions, you can support your baby's transition to solid foods with confidence. Remember to be patient, enjoy the journey, and celebrate each milestone along the way. Happy weaning!