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Babies feel more secure if most of their feeds are given by their parents or main caregiver, especially in the early weeks, as this helps with bonding.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed your baby. There are important benefits which breastfeeding provides for both you and your baby. However, it is a skill that can take time to develop.

Speak to your midwife or health visitor if you are struggling to breastfeed or have any questions or concerns. You can also consider joining a local breastfeeding support group.

Find more information about breastfeeding on the NHS website.

Croydon NHS breastfeeding support

If you are having problems breastfeeding a baby, the Croydon NHS breastfeeding support service offers expert, practical support and information in a relaxed, unhurried environment.

They can also help with:

• deciding how you feed your baby (if you are just getting started)
• meeting other breastfeeding mums
• breastfeeding in public returning to work (if you are unsure how to continue)
• expressing breast milk
• baby-led weaning
• introducing solids
• breastfeeding an older baby or toddler
• stopping breastfeeding

Weaning

Introduce your baby to solid foods, also referred to as weaning or complementary feeding, start when your baby is around 6 months old. Your baby should have a varied diet, alongside their usual breast milk or first infant formula.

Visit the NHS page on weaning your baby, for expert advice, helpful videos, tips from other parents, and lots of simple healthy weaning recipes and meal ideas.