How to Start Baby-Led Weaning: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents

Bamboo plate and bowl set with strong suction base on a highchair, perfect for baby-led weaning and mess-free feeding.

Starting baby-led weaning (BLW) can feel both exciting and overwhelming for parents. As you embark on this milestone with your little one, it’s essential to understand the basics and benefits of BLW. This guide covers everything you need to know, helping you feel confident in this journey while keeping your baby safe and happy.

 

What is Baby-Led Weaning?

Baby-led weaning is a feeding approach where you allow your baby to feed themselves from the start of their solid food journey, skipping traditional purées and spoon-feeding. This method promotes self-feeding skills, encourages healthy eating habits, and enhances motor skills.

 

When to Start Baby-Led Weaning

 

The ideal time to start BLW is when your baby shows the following readiness signs, typically around 6 months old:

Good head and neck control

Ability to sit upright without support

Interest in food (e.g., reaching for food during family meals)

Loss of the tongue-thrust reflex (pushing food out of the mouth)

 

Always consult your paediatrician before starting solids to ensure your baby is developmentally ready.

 

Benefits of Baby-Led Weaning

 

Encourages Independence: Babies learn to self-feed at their own pace.

Promotes Healthy Eating Habits: Exposure to a variety of textures and flavors early on can reduce picky eating later.

Supports Motor Development: Handling food helps improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

Family Mealtimes: BLW allows babies to eat what the family eats, fostering bonding and shared experiences.

 

How to Start Baby-Led Weaning

 

Follow these steps to begin your BLW journey successfully:

 

1. Set the Stage

 

Highchair with Proper Support: Ensure your baby is seated upright with feet supported.

Safety First: Always supervise your baby during mealtimes and avoid choking hazards.

Prepare for Mess: BLW can get messy! Use a splash mat and invest in easy-to-clean plates like our bamboo plate with strong suction. 

                                                 

Ken is 11 months old enjoying baby led weaning with pancakes and grapes    

 

 

2. Introduce First Foods

 

Start with soft, easy-to-hold foods cut into finger-sized shapes. Examples include:

Steamed carrot sticks

Sliced steam zucchini, Avocado

 Oatmeal 

Soft-cooked broccoli florets

 

 

3. Offer a Variety of Foods

 

Expose your baby to different textures and flavors to broaden their palate. Avoid adding salt, sugar, or honey to their meals.

 

4. Follow Your Baby’s Lead

 

Let your baby explore food at their pace.

Expect more playing and less eating initially—it’s all part of the learning process.

 

5. Stay Calm About Gagging

 

Gagging is normal as your baby learns to chew and swallow. Stay composed and avoid intervening unless it’s a choking emergency.

 

Foods to Avoid During Baby-Led Weaning

To keep your baby safe, avoid:

Whole nuts and grapes (choking hazards)

Honey (risk of botulism in babies under 1 year)

Salt and added sugar

Processed foods

 

Tips for a Smooth Baby-Led Weaning Journey

 

Model Eating Behaviour: Eat alongside your baby to show them how it’s done.

Use Baby-Friendly Utensils: Introduce spoons and forks as your baby grows comfortable with self-feeding.

Celebrate Small Wins: Every attempt is a step forward in your baby’s development.

 

 

Common Questions About Baby-Led Weaning

 

Is Baby-Led Weaning Safe?

 

Yes, when practiced correctly. Always supervise your baby, avoid choking hazards, and follow the readiness signs.

 

Can I Combine BLW with Spoon-Feeding?

 

Absolutely! You can offer purées on a pre-loaded spoon alongside finger foods.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Baby-led weaning is a fantastic way to introduce your baby to solids while promoting independence and healthy habits. With the right preparation, you and your little one can enjoy this exciting phase of development.

 

For tools and products that make mealtimes easier, explore our bamboo plates and baby essentials designed with your parenting journey in mind.

 

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