The weaning process

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be breast-fed for at least a year and as long after as mother and child desire.¹Weaning from breast- or bottle-feeding can be done gradually or abruptly.

• If you are not breast-feeding and your baby is younger than 12 months of age, use iron-fortified formula. Do not offer your baby cow's milk.¹ The iron in cow's milk is not well-absorbed, and iron is necessary for healthy development. Also, some babies may be more likely to react to the protein in cow's milk.
• If your baby is older than 12 months, you can give your baby whole milk. Do not use skim milk or 2% milk before your child is 2 years old. These types of milk provide too few calories, too much protein, and inadequate essential fatty acids.²
• Switching from breast milk to formula may cause differences in how often your baby feeds and a change in the color and consistency of your baby's stools.

The first step in the weaning process, giving your baby solid foods, can generally be started at 4 to 6 months of age. Feed your baby at the table with the rest of the family. Follow your health professional's advice on when and what to feed your baby. At 6 months of age, iron-enriched solid foods should be introduced.¹ Usually, the more solid foods a baby eats, the less breast milk or formula he or she needs, and the easier it will be to wean.

When your baby is about 6 months old, offer the cup. Over the next 6 months, watch for signs that he or she is ready to wean (give up the breast or bottle). Pay close attention to whether your baby is sucking for comfort or hunger. If your baby uses a pacifier, consider replacing it with a blanket or stuffed toy for comfort.

When you have decided that you and your child are ready to give up breast- or bottle-feeding, develop a plan for what you will do. Talk with other family members and get their help.

If you plan to gradually wean your baby from breast- or bottle-feeding, eliminate the least important feeding first, which is usually the midday one. Then stop the late afternoon and morning feedings. Stop the most important feeding (the one that provides the baby the greatest emotional comfort) last; this is usually the first or last feeding of the day. Whether you are weaning or not, the last feeding should gradually be moved up so that by 4 months it is no longer at bedtime and other soothing rituals can be established.

Gradual weaning

A gradual weaning slowly reduces the number of breast- or bottle-feedings. One feeding is eliminated every few days, giving the mother and baby time to adjust. Gradual weaning helps maintain emotional attachment, prevents breast engorgement, and allows the baby to learn other ways of eating. It is generally planned to suit both the mother's and child's needs.