Weaning is such an exciting time – I know too well it comes with plenty of challenges too, but I try to encourage people to think of it as a journey and as an experience for baby and you as a parent/carer as well! It’s a chance to explore a wonderful world of food, mess, textures get your little one tasting lots of new!

Here are five fab food groups to get on your radar early doors:

1. Veggies (of course)

I’m a huge fan of starting with savoury veggies. Think broccoli, spinach, courgette, and cauliflower, as examples. Try offering one a day and vary between them for the first few days/week or so of weaning. Veggies are packed with vitamins and minerals, and starting with savoury flavours helps broaden your baby’s palate beyond sweet tastes right at the start. Keep offering even if they’re not keen at first…exposure is key!

2. Iron-Rich Foods

Iron is essential for brain development and energy, especially from 6 months when baby’s stores may start to dip. Include foods like lentils, beef, eggs, and fortified cereals, in appropriate textures and servings for a baby. Pair with vitamin C-rich foods (like strawberries or peppers) to increase absorption of iron and try to offer iron rich foods regularly.

3. Potential Allergens

Get these in early and often if you can…Introducing allergens like peanut butter, egg, and dairy early (from around 6 months) in tiny amounts initially can actually help reduce the risk of allergies developing. Just go slow, one at a time, and always watch for reactions.

4. Plant-Based Foods

Beans, lentils, tofu, and nut butters offer protein, fibre, and a whole host of nutrients. They’re fab for gut health and great for mixing up textures. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and easy to batch cook! It’s great to get little ones used to a wide variety of plants RIGHT from the start of weaning. Remember, variety is always your friend!

5. Herbs & Spices

These are perfect as little flavour explorers for your little ones. Babies don’t need salt or sugar, but they can absolutely enjoy flavour! Try cinnamon in porridge, cumin in lentils, or basil with a tomato sauce. It’s a gentle way to build adventurous eaters right from the start.

The key to weaning success is thinking about variety and also making the experience enjoyable and fun! My book How to Wean Your Baby offers you a STEP-BY-STEP guide to your weaning journey and The Ultimate Weaning & Toddler Cookbook offers all the recipes you need on your journey too!