Weaning Guidance for Babies and Young Children (0–5 years)

At Hailes Barn Day Nursery, we support families as babies start their journeys with solid foods. We follow national NHS and early years guidance to ensure weaning is safe, healthy, and responsive to each child’s individual needs.

We work closely with parents and carers to provide a consistent approach between home and nursery.

When to Start Weaning

The NHS recommends introducing solid foods at around 6 months of age. Before this time, babies receive all the nutrients they need from breast milk or formula.

Signs your baby may be ready for weaning include:

  • Sitting up with support and holding their head steady

  • Coordinating eyes, hands and mouth (able to pick up food and bring it to their mouth)

  • Swallowing food rather than pushing it back out

Every child develops at their own pace. If you are unsure, speak with your Health Visitor or GP.

First Foods and Safe Weaning

We support a gentle, gradual introduction to solid foods.

Good first foods include:

  • Soft cooked vegetables (carrot, broccoli, sweet potato)

  • Soft fruits (banana, pear, avocado)

  • Mashed or blended foods

  • Iron-rich foods such as lentils, beans, meat, fish or fortified cereals

Safety Tips

  • Always supervise babies and young children while eating

  • Ensure food is soft, small and manageable to reduce choking risk

  • Avoid adding salt or sugar to baby food

  • Introduce potential allergens (such as egg and peanut) one at a time and in small amounts, unless advised otherwise by a health professional

  • Never leave a child alone with food

Drinks During Weaning

  • Breast milk or formula remains the main drink until age 1

  • Offer small sips of water with meals from around 6 months

  • Avoid sugary drinks and juices

  • Whole cow’s milk can be used in cooking from 6 months, but not as a main drink until after age 1

Weaning from 1 Year Onwards

As children grow, they gradually move towards family foods and a balanced diet.

We encourage:

  • Three healthy meals per day plus nutritious snacks

  • A variety of foods from all food groups

  • Self-feeding and independence where appropriate

  • Healthy eating habits and positive mealtime experiences

We always work with parents regarding:

  • Allergies and dietary needs

  • Cultural or family food preferences

  • Individual feeding stages and routines

How We Support Weaning at Hailes Barn Day Nursery

  • We follow NHS and early years nutritional guidance

  • Staff are trained in safe feeding and choking prevention

  • Children are always supervised while eating

  • We work in partnership with families to follow each child’sindividual weaning journey 

  • We promote healthy eating and positive mealtime experiences

If your child is still weaning when they start with us,  we are happy to discuss their routine and support you through this stage.

Useful Weaning and Nutrition Resources for Parents

If you have concerns about your child’s eating, growth or allergies, please speak with your Health Visitor, GP, or a qualified health professional.