Baby-led weaning (BLW) is the process of allowing babies to feed the food by themselves. Apart from preventing babies from becoming picky eaters, this approach has many other benefits. It helps babies improve dexterity, self-regulation, develop fine motor skills, and many others.
Parents who want to follow this approach should note that their babies have met the signs needed for effective BLW feeding.
Read also: What is Baby-Led Weaning?
Things you need to know before you start with baby-led weaning
Before you start with your baby-led weaning journey, there are some things that you need to know.
You will see gagging and it is safe
At the start of baby-led weaning, your baby will gag lots of times. Parents should not worry if this happens because natural gag-reflex will help your baby to move the food that went to the back of their throats back in front to prevent choking.
If you see your baby make a funny face and a gagging sound, relax and wait for a few seconds. Your baby knows what to do not to choke. If you freak out, your baby will be frightened, which could cause him to choke.
Read also: First-Time Parents' Guide to Newborn Baby Grooming
At six months of age or adjusted age for premies, babies are ready to handle solid foods. For peace of mind, you may take infant CPR or first aid course.
Prepare a slightly different meal
What is great about BLW is that you do not have to prepare purees for your baby. While you could feed them the same food as other family members eat, it is not the same food.
Your baby's kidneys could not handle much salt and sugar because they are not mature enough. Bear in mind that it would be better to serve your baby natural whole foods instead of the microwavable. Add the seasonings to adult food after you have served your baby's.
Choose the right kinds of food
Make sure to feed your baby with an assortment of food that contains the needed vitamins. Focus on serving iron-rich foods, and include soft fruits and steamed vegetables, whole grains, and full-fat yogurt.
Read also: 6 Ultimate Reasons Why Your Baby Passes Green Poop
It will be messy
The messier, the better! People who have heard about BLW know that it is messier compared to the traditional spoon-feeding. Make sure that when you purchase a high chair, you can clean it easily.
You may also buy a plastic bib with a pocket for your baby to scoop food that fell in it. Lining a tarp underneath your baby's high chair could help you clean the floor easily.
Food should not be cut into small pieces
If you cut your baby's food into smaller pieces, it will not be helpful. Babies do not develop the pincer grasp until eight or nine months before they could pick up tiny pieces of food into their mouths. Make sure to serve them with finger-sized food that is soft enough.
