The “Introducing Solid Foods” Programme is designed for parents and carers of infants who are starting, or have already started, complementary feeding. The plan takes account of the child’s developmental readiness, current feeding method, growth, family habits and the recommendations of the treating paediatrician.
What’s included
- a consultation with a parent or carer lasting up to 60 minutes, including a review of information about the child’s growth, health and development to date
- a personalised four-week plan for gradually introducing meals, foods and textures
- guidance on nutrient-rich foods, sources of iron, the gradual introduction of allergens, safe food preparation and responsive feeding
- adaptation for purees, finger foods or a combined approach, including baby-led weaning only where it is developmentally appropriate and safe
Format
The plan is delivered within seven to ten working days. The programme does not replace a paediatric assessment of the child’s readiness for solid foods.
Premature birth, faltering growth, a confirmed or suspected food allergy, frequent coughing or choking during feeds, swallowing difficulties, recovery following a frenulum procedure, pronounced food aversion and chronic illness require medical documentation and, where appropriate, a multidisciplinary approach.