Stage By Stage Approach To Baby Led Weaning With Confidence: A Comprehensive Guide

Baby-led weaning (BLW) is a feeding method that allows babies to explore and self-feed solid foods from an early age. Unlike traditional weaning, where pureed foods are spoon-fed to babies, BLW gives babies the freedom to control their own feeding experience and develop their motor skills.

While BLW can be an exciting journey, it's essential to approach it with confidence and a clear understanding of the stages involved. This article will provide a comprehensive stage-by-stage approach to BLW, empowering you to embark on this adventure with ease.

Before starting BLW, it's crucial to ensure your baby is developmentally ready. Here are the key signs to look for:

BLW Baby Food Cookbook : A Stage-by-Stage Approach to Baby-Led Weaning with Confidence

by Laura Morton RD

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6536 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	263 pages
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• Age: Around 6-7 months old
• Sitting upright: Ability to hold their head steady and sit up with or without support
• Curiosity: Interest in food and attempts to grab it
• Tongue-thrust reflex: Absence of the tongue reflex that pushes food out of the mouth
• Pincer grasp: Developing the ability to pick up small objects between their thumb and forefinger

Once your baby meets the readiness criteria, it's time to introduce BLW. Start by offering finger-sized pieces of soft, easy-to-grip foods such as:

• Steamed or roasted vegetables (e.g., carrots, sweet potatoes)
• Ripe fruits (e.g., bananas, avocado)
• Soft-cooked meats (e.g., chicken, fish)
• Toasted or soft bread

Let your baby decide what they want to eat and explore at their own pace. Initially, they may only play with the food or lick it, but gradually they will start ingesting small amounts.

As your baby becomes more comfortable with BLW, you can gradually introduce a wider variety of foods. Include:

• Finger foods: Cheerios, teething biscuits, sliced apple
• Mashed foods: Mashed sweet potatoes, avocado
• Yogurt: Full-fat plain yogurt

Continue to offer a variety of foods and allow your baby to experiment with different textures and flavors.

Establish a regular mealtime routine around 6-8 months. Offer BLW meals 2-3 times per day alongside milk feeds. Gradually reduce the number of milk feeds as your baby becomes more proficient at self-feeding.

Create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere during mealtimes. Sit with your baby and let them watch you eat. Encourage them to explore and experiment, and be patient with any messes or spills.

Safety is paramount with BLW. Always supervise your baby closely during meals and ensure they are sitting upright.

Gagging is a common occurrence during BLW. It's a natural reflex that protects babies from choking. If your baby gags, remain calm and allow them to clear the food themselves. Do not intervene unless they are struggling or turning blue.

Learn the difference between gagging and choking. If your baby is choking, quickly perform the necessary first-aid maneuvers.

As your baby grows and develops, they may naturally transition to using utensils. Around 12-18 months, you can introduce a spoon or fork and encourage them to feed themselves.

Continue to offer finger foods and mashed foods alongside regular meals. Allow your baby to experiment with different utensils and decide what they prefer.

• Educate yourself: Read books, attend workshops, and connect with other BLW parents to gain knowledge and support.
• Start slowly: Introduce new foods gradually and observe your baby's reactions.
• Be responsive: Pay attention to your baby's cues and adjust the pace of BLW accordingly.
• Avoid distraction: Create a calm and quiet environment during mealtimes to minimize distractions.
• Don't give up: BLW can be messy and challenging at times, but it's an incredibly rewarding experience. Stay positive and persistent.

Embarking on baby-led weaning can be an exciting adventure for you and your little one. By following a stage-by-stage approach and embracing these tips, you can introduce solid foods with confidence, watching your baby blossom into a competent and enthusiastic eater. Remember, every baby is unique, so adjust the pace and progression of BLW to suit your child's individual needs. With patience, love, and a touch of humor, you'll navigate this journey with ease and joy.

BLW Baby Food Cookbook : A Stage-by-Stage Approach to Baby-Led Weaning with Confidence

by Laura Morton RD

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6536 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	263 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE