Baby Led Weaning – Tips to Get Started

Baby led weaning has become more popular over the past few years as an alternative way to introduce solids to baby. The idea behind baby led weaning is to skip traditional pureed baby food and instead offer baby a variety of finger foods and allow baby to self-feed on a variety of finger foods.

By allowing baby to self-feed instead of being spoon-fed, not only does it expose baby to a variety of foods and textures but it also helps baby to develop increased hand-eye coordination, increased oral motor skills (learning to chew and swallow) and also teaches baby self-regulation (how to stop eating when full). However, sometimes starting baby on solids can be scary and many worry about the danger of choking. If you are interested in getting started with baby led weaning here are our top safety tips:

• Do not start until baby is able to sit up unsupported (this is usually around 7-8 months).
• Never leave baby unattended with food.
• Start with soft foods and avoid foods that are choking hazards (grapes, nuts, sticky nut butters etc).
• Start slowly, only offering one or two pieces of food.

If baby starts gagging that is okay and is common when starting. Gagging is a safe and natural response to food traveling too far back in the mouth, and it is very different than choking. If a baby is gagging they will cough and make noise to get the food out and with choking they will be silent. It is important to know the difference but always go with your gut!

The following are a list of foods to get started with:

• ripe fruits (bananas, avocado, pears)
• vegetables (steamed broccoli, carrots, sweet potato)
• cooked pasta
• cooked egg yolks (or whole eggs if baby is not allergic)
• soft cheeses (ricotta or cottage cheese)

Baby led weaning is a great way to introduce solids to baby, but remember it doesn’t have to be all or nothing, you can do this in combination with traditional pureed foods. Keep in mind that babies learn at their own pace and may not be ready to start self-feeding so be sure to continue to offer formula or breastmilk until after baby’s first birthday. And lastly, prepare yourself for a mess!