BLW: Baby-Led Weaning
What is baby-led weaning?
Baby-led weaning (BLW) is an approach to introducing first solid foods that encourages a baby to feed themselves modified table foods. This begins as a baby exhibits readiness to eat (~6 months old, can sit upright unassisted, shows interest in food) and marks the start of weaning from breastfeeding and/or formula feeding. Although the baby starts eating “real” food, breastfeeding and/or formula feeding should continue until the baby is 12 months old to ensure adequate growth and development.
The BLW approach avoids reliance on classic pureed baby food, although note that a baby still needs to learn how to manipulate this texture from foods like yogurt, applesauce, and smooth soups. BLW differs from spoon-feeding in that it encourages parents to have a hands-off approach, allowing the baby to pick up food and bring it to their mouths (ie. self-feed), instead of putting food on a spoon and inserting it into the baby's mouth. Baby spoons can be preloaded with food and then handed to the baby to encourage self-feeding. Although parents and caregivers have a hands-off approach it is important to highlight that the baby should NEVER be left alone while eating in case of choking.
Pros & Cons
Pros of BLW =
Development of hand-eye coordination, the pincer grasp, oral manipulation of food (ie. using the tongue, chewing, etc.)
Easy food preparation for baby
No need to buy jarred baby food or pouches
Saves money
Increases food variety and acceptance
Exposes baby to a variety of nutrients
Early introduction to food allergens
Allows baby to eat based on their hunger levels and at their own pace
Promotes independence
Promotes family meal times - no special meals made specifically for baby
No increased risk of choking compared to spoon-feeding
Cons of BLW =
More mess
Takes time
Still need to modify food to minimize choking risk
Some pediatricians don’t agree
Some family members/friends don’t agree
Not all daycares welcome this style of feeding
Do what works for you and your baby!
BLW isn’t for everyone, especially babies in certain situations (premies, underweight, failure to thrive, etc.). It is important to check in with your pediatrician and seek out a nutrition professional, like one of our dietitians at Whole Health Nutrition, if you are thinking about starting BLW. Also, keep in mind introducing solid foods doesn’t have to be all or nothing - combining BLW with traditional spoon-feeding may work better for you and your baby. No matter what path you choose, enjoy every minute of feeding with your little one, especially those funny faces they make when they try a new food the first time!
