Baby-Led Weaning is an interesting concept of introducing solids that allows babies to feed themselves. There is no use of spoons as the baby uses her hands to feed herself.
This way allows your baby to explore taste, texture, colour and smell of food. It also helps to develop their hand-eye coordination and chewing skills and ultimately your baby is less likely to become a picky eater as he chooses how much he needs to eat.
Tips on how to do Baby-Led Weaning
If you do choose to use this approach, here are a few tips on how to go about it.
- Ensure that your baby is sitting upright and is able to use his hands freely. You can use a feeding/high chair or hold them on your lap.
- Put the food in front of your baby and let him pick it up from the plate or your own hand
- Ensure that your baby is not very hungry or tired. You can breastfeed first and then offer the meal.
- Prepare foods that are easy to pick up, e.g. strips of soft carrots, potatoes etc. Introduce new shapes and textures gradually as your baby gains confidence in feeding himself
- Let your baby join the family mealtimes. Babies learn by observations and she will copy you as you also eat
- Allow your baby to take his time, avoid distractions as well.
- Once the baby looks like they do not want any more, you can take away the food.
