Weaning from Breastfeeding

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Category: Self Development

Last Modified: 17 July 2012

Weaning is the process when a baby moves from breastfeeding or bottle feeding to non-milk meal. The sensitive periods for weaning are about 5-6 months. Before this period the parent needs to prepare the baby for this process. This starts at the age of 3-4 months when the baby is introduced to different flavours by letting the baby have a taste of fruit juice form a tiny spoon. This is continued for about a month, when feeding the baby remember not to force the baby but wait for the baby to pen their mouth or stick their tongue out when food is offered to them.

Weaning is the process when a baby moves from breastfeeding or bottle feeding to non-milk meal. The sensitive periods for weaning are about 5-6 months. Before this period the parent needs to prepare the baby for this process. This starts at the age of 3-4 months when the baby is introduced to different flavours by letting the baby have a taste of fruit juice form a tiny spoon. This is continued for about a month, when feeding the baby remember not to force the baby but wait for the baby to pen their mouth or stick their tongue out when food is offered to them.

By the fourth month introduce the baby to egg yolk. As the baby reaches the 5th or 6th month the baby is ready to have his first solid meal. Replace one milk meal of the baby preferably in the afternoon since this is also the time that milk production may be low if breastfeeding. Introduce to the baby as well stale small pieces of bread as ptyalin is produced. This is the enzyme that breaks down starch.

The first meal of the baby must be a time that is quiet and peaceful to be able to make the experience enjoyable. Ideally have a baby sized table and weaning chair. Have a small spoon one for the baby to hold and one for the adult. This allows the baby to practice grasping. The first meal is recommended to be cram of brown rice cooked in vegetable broth. Serve small portions on a plate and if the baby wants more then serve them more. Do not try to finish the serve that you have prepared if the baby has declined or refused to have more. Gradually introduce the baby to other foods such as pureed or mashed fruits and vegetables. When introducing a baby to a certain food wait about 3-4 days to see if a baby has a reaction to the food given before giving it to the baby once more. By the 7th or 8th month introduce the baby to milk products such as yoghurt and cheese. The baby can also have small pieces of meat. Hopefully by the age of 12 months the child is completely weaned off milk but the child may still have breast milk to supplement their meals. (*Please see the note below)

By 6 months replace only one meal by 7-8 months replace 2 meals and by 8-9 months 3 meals. By 12 months the child should be having meals same as the family.

When having a meal with the child it is important to face him to give him respect in letting him know when the food is about to be given. Giving the child a spoon in the early stages allows them to practice their grasping and later on attempt to feed themselves as they have seen it modelled by the adults. An adult may scoop the food for the child leave it in the bowl and the child may take it from the bowl to place in the mouth. This will allow the child to have independence. Also allow the child to have finger foods such as rice crackers and bread or even soft fruits.

When having the first meal it is important to make it an enjoyable experience not hurried and choose a convenient time. Respect the child’s choice to eat or not to eat. Have a table that is beautiful with a placemat, utensils and even flowers. The child can also be given a small glass of water (shot glass) during meals.

*Note - Recommendations on breastfeeding from some of the organisations

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
“The AAP recommends that babies be exclusively breastfed for about the first 6 months of life. This means your baby needs no additional foods (except Vitamin D) or fluids unless medically indicated. Babies should continue to breastfeed for a year and for as long as is mutually desired by the mother and baby.”
Source: http://www.aap.org/breastfeeding/faqsBreastfeeding.html

The Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA)
“When to wean - This is a very personal decision, which must take into consideration the needs of baby and mother, as well as the home and family situation. You may want to, or you may have to, wean early. Try to make it gradual if this is the case. On the other hand, you may want to wean later - into your baby’s second year, or later. Ideally it is best not to set a time limit for weaning unless it is absolutely necessary.”
Source: http://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bfinfo/weaning.html

World Health Organisation (WHO)
“WHO recommends - WHO strongly recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. At six months, other foods should complement breastfeeding for up to two years or more.”
Source: http://www.who.int/features/factfiles/breastfeeding/facts/en/index.html