I have been reading all week about the "starting solids" debate. I must say
I agree with Dr Newman.  I firmly believe we need to watch the kids.  My
1st child had only breastmilk for 6 months and then pretty much skipped
baby food and went to table food.  She was tearing tiny fibers of steak off
the bone with her only 4 front teeth by 7-8 months.  My MD scolded me and
told me she needed to be eating strained baby food(which she just spit
out).  My 3rd child was started on cereal at 4 months when I noticed she
was burning ketones, got worried about diabetes, talked to my MD who just
laughed and said it was time for solids.  My 4th child refused the bottle
when I had to go back to working 12 hours shifts (which meant I was away
from him 14 hours).  During that time I was away the daycare providers
could only get about 3-4 oz down him. (This was combined in numerous
feedings).  At 6 months we started solids and he never took another bottle
at daycare, we did find that small juice boxes worked great, he was able to
suck on the firm straw and he would have 4oz of that a day.  It made life
so much more bearable for everyone.  He is now 2 1/2 and still nursing.  I
think everyone and everybaby is so individual you will never be able to
make a blanket statement about what is the "perfect time for everyone".
Sorry this is so long, it's been building all week.  Thanks, Barb IBCLC, WI

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