Time goes by so quickly when you have had a baby that it seems like no time at all has passed, before you will need to start to introduce him to solid foods. The world health organization advises to wait until babies are 6 months old before introducing any other foods, except either baby formula or breast milk, into their diet. This has changed from the earlier recommendation of 4 months. This process is known as weaning your baby. By the age of 6 months onwards a baby has developed enough to enable the swallowing of solid foods and the so called tongue extrusion reflex, where most things given orally to a baby are pushed out by the tongue, has passed. The digestive system has also matured enough for the body to break down solids, backing the advice of the world health organization to wait to this stage of the babies' development. So, be patient and enjoy the first few months, either breast feeding or bottle feeding your baby. The messy job of weaning will come soon enough. Introducing solids to your baby can be a daunting but exciting time. He may spit every single mouthful out each time you try to feed him or pull hilarious faces when he feels this strange substance in his mouth for the first time. Do not worry! He is learning too. Feed your baby in a comfortable position either on your lap or in a baby seat making sure he is safe at all times and sitting in an upright position. Using a teaspoon or an infant plastic spoon, scoop a tiny amount of food, and put it just slightly inside your baby's' mouth, being careful not to force it. Let your baby feel the food in his mouth, at which point he will probably spit it right back out. Just persist putting it back into his mouth until he eventually swallows some. An indication he has had enough is when he turns away. So don't fret if you feel he has taken very little or none at all. This is a process, and a big learning curve for your baby. Some babies wean very easily, others can be more difficult. Every baby is different. Remember this can be a messy task. So have bibs and wipes at hand before you begin each feed. Most babies wait until the food is placed in their mouth, they then slightly push it out of their mouth again, and cutely wipe it all over their face. So best not wear your expensive clothing, maybe a boiler suit would be more appropriate! The most important thing to remember is that there is no right or wrong way to do this. Every baby is an individual and weaning will come slower or quicker for each. Above all enjoy your baby!
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