Weaning process

For the first month or two of weaning, start each feed with milk as usual. As you go along, build up the amount and frequency of solids until he's eating three meals a day, in addition to his milk allowance.

Start by introducing plain baby rice or baby cereals, mixed with 4 to 5 teaspoons breast- or formula milk per teaspoon of solids. Sit your baby upright then offer his first foods with a small spoon once or twice a day. If your baby isn't interested, be patient: Wait a week or two before trying again.

When your baby gets the hang of semi-solids, gradually introduce pureed vegetables (which can be easily made by mashing foods up with a little breast- or formula milk), fruits, puddings and other new foods one at a time, waiting a week between each new food. When he's past vegetable purees, switch the feeding order: Feed him solids first, then follow with milk. Don't add salt or sugar to his foods or feed him the following foods, especially if there is a family history of allergies:

First foods to avoid:

Cow's milk or milk products such as cheese, yogurt

Fish and shellfish

Eggs

Citrus fruits and juices

By 12 months, he should be able to handle small portions of finely chopped finger foods at mealtimes, including well-cooked pasta, graham cracker and ground meat, while taking most of his milk either in the morning and evening.