Best Weaning Practices for Infants – A Comprehensive Guide

Weaning is a significant milestone in a baby’s developmental journey. It marks the gradual transition from a milk-only diet (breast milk or formula) to solid foods and family meals. This phase plays a vital role in shaping a child’s nutritional habits, palate preferences, and overall growth. 

In this guide, we cover everything you need to know—from when and how to start weaning, to the foods you should include or avoid, and simple beginner recipes to ease the journey.

What is Weaning?

Weaning is the process of introducing your baby to foods and drinks other than breast milk or formula. It doesn’t mean stopping milk feeds entirely at once—it’s a gradual shift. Weaning helps babies develop chewing skills, hand-eye coordination, and the foundation for lifelong healthy eating.

Types of Weaning - 

1. Traditional Weaning (Spoon-Feeding) Parents offer pureed or mashed foods using a spoon and gradually move toward lumpy and finger foods.

2. Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) Babies self-feed with soft finger foods from the beginning, encouraging independence and motor skills.

3. Combination Weaning A flexible method combining spoon-feeding and baby-led approaches based on the baby's cues.
   

When to Start Weaning?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, followed by the introduction of complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding up to 2 years or beyond.

Signs your baby may be ready for solids (typically around 6 months):

• Sits upright with support

• Shows interest in food

• Has good head and neck control

• Loses the tongue-thrust reflex

• Tries to grab food or utensils
  

Transitioning to Solids

Weaning is a phased process:

• Stage 1 (6–7 months): Start with smooth purees and single-ingredient foods.

• Stage 2 (7–9 months): Introduce mashed, lumpy foods and combinations.

• Stage 3 (9–12 months): Finger foods and soft chopped meals from the family pot.

Monthly foods to introduce from 6^th month:

• Sixth month - Rice water, dal water, Fruit juice and vegetable soups (tomato, carrot, spinach), thin consistency porridges/ kanji of cereals and millets

• Seventh month - Mashed banana, stewed apple, papaya and mango

• Eighth and ninth month - Porridge prepared using various cereals & millets, soft upma and sheera, mashed and well-cooked rice, dal or khichdi, soft pancake, idli, dosa, mashed and well- cooked vegetables, mashed potato, sweet potato

• Tenth month – Well-cooked egg

• Eleventh month – Cooked and mashed/minced meat/poultry or soups made from meat or poultry products

• Eleventh month to 1 year - Cooked fish
  

Start with small quantities once a day, gradually increasing based on the baby’s appetite.

Foods to Avoid in Early Weaning -

• Salt, sugar, and honey (especially under 1 year)

• Cow’s milk as a main drink (can be used in cooking)

• Whole nuts, grapes (choking hazard)

• Deep-fried, processed, or spicy foods

• Caffeinated drinks or juices

• Unpasteurized cheese or raw eggs
  

Reading the Baby’s Response

Every baby is different. Watch for:

• Acceptance: Baby opens mouth, chews, swallows

• Rejection: Turns head, pushes food out, cries

• Allergy signs: Rashes, diarrhea, vomiting, breathing trouble

Always introduce one new food at a time and wait 3 days before adding another to monitor reactions.

Common Weaning Challenges

• Refusing solids: Try at a different time, or offer variety

• Constipation: Offer water and fiber-rich foods like prunes

• Gagging or choking: Ensure food is soft and appropriately sized

• Messiness: Let baby explore—it's part of learning!

Stay patient and consistent. Offer meals when the baby is alert, not overly hungry or sleepy.

Practical Tips for Successful Weaning

• Create a routine around meal and milk times.

• Make mealtimes fun—no force-feeding.

• Eat together—babies learn by watching.

• Offer a variety of textures and flavors.

• Maintain hygiene while preparing and storing food.

• Use a baby-friendly spoon and small portions.
  

Conclusion –

Weaning is more than just feeding—it’s about exploration, growth, and bonding. With the right approach, patience, and variety, you can ensure a smooth transition from milk to meals, laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy eating. Always consult your pediatrician if you have concerns about allergies, growth, or feeding difficulties.