INTRODUCTION TO SOLIDS

According to the World Health Organisation it is best to start solid at the age of 6 month when baby is showing readiness. Although there is some babies that shows readiness just before the age of 6 months depending on weight and maturity.

SIGNS OF READINESS:

• Holding head up and steady

• Sitting with support (in a high chair)

• Aware of hand and fingers – to participate in feeding although the accuracy and coordination is still poor

• Shows interest in food like watching when you eat, trying to grab food and opening their mouth when food comes near

• Also looking for reduced tongue thrust (tongue pushing food out of the mouth) , this usually disappears between 4 and 6 months.

Do not be surprised if the first spoon gets rejected, this is a learning experience for both mother and baby, the start of a wonderful food adventure.

It is advised to start your baby with a single vegetable or fruit puree, give this for the next 3 days, then move to the next exciting flavour.

To offer more variety in nutrition, flavour and textures you can then start by mixing 2 or 3 fruits and vegetables together for your baby to explore and enjoy.

Starting with the first solids, will add the others later

4 to 6 Months Solids:

• Butternut

• Pumpkin

• Apple

• Pear

• Sweet potato

• Avocado

• Oats ( add some breastmilk/formula)

• Oats and pear

Add later

7 to 10 Months Solids:

• Mango bliss

• Oats , apple and cinnamon

• Oats, pear and prune (for constipated tummies)

• Oats and prune

• Avo and banana

• Avo and pear

• Beetroot and sweet potato

• Chicken

• Beef

• Carrots and apple

• Pea minty puree

• Beef and sweet potato stew

• Sweet chicken and potato

• Sweet potato and green beans