Introducing solids is a major milestone in your baby’s journey — and baby-led weaning (BLW) is a popular, hands-on method that puts your little one in control. Instead of spoon-feeding purees, BLW allows babies to self-feed soft, graspable finger foods from the start. It encourages independence, fine motor skills, and a healthy relationship with food.
What Is Baby-Led Weaning?
Baby-led weaning skips the spoon and embraces whole foods. From around 6 months, babies join the family at mealtimes and feed themselves appropriately sized pieces of soft food. Think: steamed broccoli, banana spears, or soft strips of chicken.
Benefits of Baby-Led Weaning
- Supports motor development – Picking up, chewing, and self-feeding build coordination.
- Promotes self-regulation – Babies learn to stop eating when full.
- Encourages food exploration – Different textures, tastes, and shapes help prevent picky eating.
Safety First: Tips for Worry-Free Weaning
- Wait until 6 months – Your baby should sit up with minimal support and show interest in food.
- Start with soft foods – Steamed veggies, ripe fruits, and well-cooked pasta are great.
- Avoid choking hazards – No whole nuts, raw carrots, grapes (unless quartered), or popcorn.
- Always supervise – Stay close and let baby eat in an upright position.
Easy Meal Ideas to Try
- Soft-cooked carrot sticks with mashed avocado
- Scrambled eggs with sliced soft toast fingers
- Banana pancakes made with oats and mashed banana
- Steamed broccoli florets with flaked fish
- Halal and organic baby-friendly meatballs (gently mashed)
Final Thoughts
Baby-led weaning can be a joyful and messy adventure — but it’s also a rewarding one. Every bite is a step toward independence, discovery, and a lifelong love of good food.