Does solid food have to replace breastfeeding?
Absolutely not! A better term to describe weaning is complementary feeding, which conveys the idea of combining the two things. Remember, there is absolutely no rush to “replace” breast milk or formula milk.
From the age of 6 to 12 months (and even afterwards!), breast milk or formula milk is still the main source of calories and nourishment.
Solid food starts as a supplement to milk and gradually replaces it as your baby starts to eat more when their psychomotor skills improve (fine motor skills, hand-mouth coordination, chewing and swallowing abilities).
Resist the temptation of making comparisons with other babies of the same age. Remember every child develops in their own time and, sooner or later, they all learn to eat "like grown-ups".
If their growth rate is steady, then the combination of breastfeeding and solid food means they are getting everything they need in terms of energy and nutrients!
From the age of 6 to 12 months (and even afterwards!), breast milk or formula milk is still the main source of calories and nourishment.
Solid food starts as a supplement to milk and gradually replaces it as your baby starts to eat more when their psychomotor skills improve (fine motor skills, hand-mouth coordination, chewing and swallowing abilities).
Resist the temptation of making comparisons with other babies of the same age. Remember every child develops in their own time and, sooner or later, they all learn to eat "like grown-ups".
If their growth rate is steady, then the combination of breastfeeding and solid food means they are getting everything they need in terms of energy and nutrients!
Updated on: 25/03/2024