What is it and when to start weaning

Weaning, or rather complementary feeding, is the phase in which solid or semi-solid foods are gradually introduced alongside breast or formulated milk. Milk remains the main source of nutrition at least up to the first year of life (and beyond, if mother and child wish). The right time to start is always defined together with the pediatrician, who evaluates individual development and needs. There is no one-size-fits-all date: each child follows their own growth rhythms.In most cases, it starts around 6 months.The child is ready when 3 conditions occur: - he can sit with his head straight, alone or with little support; - shows curiosity about food and observes those who eat with interest; - he no longer pushes food out with his tongue (disappearance of the extrusion reflex) .Waiting for the child's signs of readiness is essential to respect his natural rhythm and promote healthy development. It is good to start by keeping breastfeeding unchanged and sitting down at the table together (better if the child is already full, otherwise he may be irritable and look for milk), to see if he is interested in tasting solid food.