Siobhan Berry, founder of Mummy Cooks and author of new book, Mummy Cooks Baby & Family Recipe Book; Cook for family, adapt for baby, shares her myth-busting weaning advice with us.
In this second blog post I continue to look at more truths behind common weaning myths. There’s also more tasty recipe ideas which I hope you enjoy!
YOU SHOULDN’T OFFER COWS MILK BEFORE 12 MONTHS
Although cow’s milk is not recommended as a drink until 12 months, you can use it in recipes. So long as your baby is getting their recommended daily intake of breast milk or formula, then you can include cow’s milk in your baby’s cereal and recipes such as our baked Moussaka.
Dairy such as plain natural yogurt and full fat mild cheeses are also great for your weaning baby. Introducing these from 6 months of age means that by 12 months your baby will be more than ready to accept whole cow’s milk.
BABIES CAN’T HAVE EGGS
For years it has been recommended to avoid eggs, particularly the yolk, before 12 months. However, eggs are perfectly fine for your baby from 6 months on once they are fully cooked. Try our Vegetable Omelette or Boiled Egg and Avocado Toast for a tasty meal your little one will love.
HOLD OFF ON MEAT
Though you may think it is better to introduce meat at a later stage, red meat, chicken and fish are perfect for your baby from 6 months. Simply ensure they are cooked through and check well for bones before offering to your tot. Try our Chicken Casserole or Hidden Veggie Burgers which are great to batch cook and freeze in your pots for up to 3 months.
BABIES CAN’T MANAGE SPICY FOODS
Don’t be afraid to add flavour and spices to your family meals, your baby will love it! Feeding bland foods or dishes without much flavour can lead to a fussy eater later on. Our Coconut Chicken Curry is a great way to introduce herbs and spices to your baby’s diet.
MY BABY CAN’T MANAGE LUMPS WITHOUT TEETH
Your baby may not have teeth, but from 6 months they will be well able to manage soft lumps and minced or mashed meals, so don’t be shy when it comes to increasing textures!
BABIES SHOULDN’T PLAY WITH THEIR FOOD
Not true! Embrace your baby’s weaning journey and encourage playing and exploring with food’s flavours and textures as much as possible! Don’t be afraid to let your baby get messy; it is all part of an enjoyable feeding experience. Get the most out of each meal time by offering a finger food along with a dip or puree for a hands-on weaning experience. The Tidy Tot Bib and Tray kit is perfect for catching all the mess your baby makes, meaning less time cleaning up afterwards!
START WEANING AT 6 MONTHS
Every child is different, and although the recommended time to start weaning is 6 months, you can start a week or two before this if your baby seems ready.
THE 3 DAY RULE
This is probably the most common weaning myth; waiting 3 days at a time before introducing a new food to your baby. This can really delay the weaning process, the rule is that you can introduce lots of new tastes to your baby just bearing in mind the texture and your baby’s weaning stage. Weaning pots are great to store foods before blending them so that you can adapt them to your baby’s stage when you defrost them. Try mixing or changing up flavours your baby has already tried to increase variety.