Question
What is the best method for weaning a child?
Answer
Hello: The scientific approach is summed up in four words—“gradual progression”. Generally, by the time infants are 10 to 12 months old, their digestive functions are basically mature, their nutritional needs gradually increase, and the quantity and quality of breast milk can no longer meet their growth and development requirements. This is an appropriate time for weaning. However, weaning is a significant change in an infant’s dietary habits, from complete reliance on breastfeeding to weaning, which requires gradual adaptation. Weaning should be combined with the introduction of complementary feeding, transforming one into the other. From 2 to 3 months after birth, infants can start with small amounts of rice soup, vegetable soup, and fruit juice. At 4 to 5 months, add egg yolks and vegetable purees; at 8 to 9 months, introduce liver puree, congee, noodles, and other foods. From 6 to 8 months, start by reducing one feeding session daily, replacing it with milk, soy milk, or egg custard. Gradually reduce the number of feeding sessions to help the infant gradually adapt to various new foods and prepare for complete weaning. The introduction of complementary foods not only adds nutrition to the child but also promotes growth and development while slowly changing eating habits. The flavors transition from single to diverse, gradually adapting to various tastes and getting accustomed to eating a variety of foods. Diverse in form and flavor, complementary foods can also enrich