Weaning is a significant milestone in your baby’s development, and it’s natural to feel both excited and a bit overwhelmed. From the practicalities of choosing the right equipment to the mental preparation required, there’s a lot to consider. This guide will walk you through the essentials, helping you feel ready for this new chapter.
The Practical Guide to Weaning Essentials
High Chair: Invest in a sturdy high chair that provides proper support for your baby. It’s the centerpiece of mealtime and should be safe and comfortable.
Water Cup: Start with a cup that has a lid and straw to make it easier for your baby to drink independently. As they grow, you can remove the lid and transition to a regular cup.
Plates and Bowls: A non-breakable plate or bowl with a suction pad can help prevent spills, but it’s not essential. Be prepared for the occasional floor drop!
Cutlery: Opt for silicone or wooden cutlery, which is gentle on your baby’s gums. Mini forks and spoons are great for helping your baby learn to feed themselves.
Bibs: Choose between sleeved bibs or simple neck bibs, depending on the day’s mess potential. In a pinch, a muslin cloth tied around their neck works just fine.
Puree Tools: If you’re making purees, a fork or potato masher will do the job. However, a hand blender can be a real time-saver, and you don’t need to splurge—budget-friendly options work just as well as high-end ones.
Mental Preparation: Setting the Right Expectations
Weaning is more than just introducing solid foods; it’s a developmental milestone that can bring up a lot of emotions. Here’s how to prepare yourself mentally for the journey ahead:
Embrace the Mess:
Weaning can get messy—embrace it! Lower your standards for cleanliness during this phase, and remind yourself it’s only temporary.
Understand Gagging vs. Choking:
Gagging is a natural reflex and a sign that your baby’s learning to manage food. While it can be alarming, it’s actually a good thing. Stay calm, reassure your baby, and know that gagging is different from choking.
Be Prepared for Choking:
Knowing what to do if your baby chokes will give you confidence. Watch videos like the British Red Cross tutorial on YouTube, or take a baby first aid course.
Check for Family Allergies:
If there’s a history of allergies, eczema, or asthma in your family, your baby might be more prone to food allergies. However, if you ate a wide variety of foods during pregnancy, including common allergens, your baby is off to a good start.
Invite Support:
If you’re feeling nervous, invite a friend or family member to join you during mealtime. A little moral support can go a long way.
Introduce New Foods in the Morning:
Morning is an ideal time to introduce new foods, as you’ll have the whole day to monitor your baby for any reactions.
Be Prepared for Allergens:
If you’re particularly worried about introducing allergenic foods, there’s no harm in doing so near a hospital for peace of mind. You’re close to help if needed.
Starting the weaning journey is a big step, but with the right information and support, you can make it a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your baby. Remember, patience and persistence are key—every baby is different, and it’s all about finding what works best for you and your little one. Happy weaning and if you need any support, we are happy to help.
Below is a video with my throughts on starting to wean.
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