The process of weaning babies, which begins with the first taste of solid food, will be the topic for this month’s La Leche League meeting to be held on Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 10:30 a.m. in Grace Episcopal Church located at 123 W. Washington Street, Lexington, in the Canterbury Room on the second floor, accessible via the elevator at the back of the church.
The Academy of Pediatrics recommends feeding breast milk exclusively for about the first six months of life followed by gradual introduction of healthy whole foods. Some signs of readiness are the baby trying to grab what mom may be eating, the ability of the pincer reflex when the baby can actually use finger and thumb to bring food to their mouth and a mature gag reflex. Some examples of good first foods are sweet potato, banana, avocado or small pieces of meat.
Babies can do well on most foods that the family is eating when presented in the right fashion, as they just want to be a part of the family. C are and supervision should of course always be paramount. Discussion will expand on potential allergenic foods that might be avoided in the early months and strategies for the timing of introduction.
With breast milk being the perfect first food, preparing whole foods to reflect continuing this ideal nutrition will be considered. What foods are more nutrient dense to help babies gain weight if needed and avoiding the empty calories contained in so many of the processed foods found on today’s grocery shelves. Ideas will be shared to help busy moms be creative with nutritious food preparation without breaking the bank.
Meetings are led by LLL leaders who have breastfed their own children and have extra training on helping families with most breastfeeding concerns.
Meetings are open to all breastfeeding and pregnant moms, children and other family members. A lending library is available with topics relating to breastfeeding, pregnancy, healthy eating cookbooks and other child rearing approaches. Refreshments will be served.
For questions or directions, call (540) 460 3966 or send email to [email protected].
