How to Start a Baby-Led Weaning Journey

Introducing solids is an exciting milestone for both you and your baby. Baby-led weaning (BLW) allows little ones to explore food independently, developing healthy eating habits, fine motor skills, and self-confidence along the way.^1. But starting a BLW journey can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to keeping mealtimes safe, stress-free, and relatively tidy.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to starting baby-led weaning the right way.

What is Baby-Led Weaning and Why Should I Try It?

Baby-led weaning is a method of introducing solids that allows babies to feed themselves from the very beginning, rather than being spoon-fed purees. Babies are offered soft, manageable pieces of food that they can pick up and explore with their hands, promoting independence and curiosity about food.^1.

BLW has several benefits. It encourages babies to listen to their hunger and fullness cues, supports the development of hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, and exposes babies to a variety of textures and flavours that can help prevent picky eating later on. Parents also get the opportunity to share mealtimes in a relaxed, interactive way.

How Do I Know When My Baby is Ready for Baby-Led Weaning?

Most babies are ready to start solids around six months of age, but readiness is determined by developmental milestones rather than the calendar. Key signs include:^1.

• Being able to sit upright with minimal support
• Showing interest in food, reaching for what you’re eating, or opening their mouth when offered food
• Losing the tongue-thrust reflex, which automatically pushes food out

Starting too early can increase the risk of choking, while waiting until your baby shows readiness signs makes mealtimes safer and more enjoyable. Paying attention to these cues ensures your baby is developmentally prepared to explore solids safely. Remember to visit our Baby Burping Guide for tips on burping your little one after mealtimes. 

What Foods Should I Offer My Baby First?

Choosing the right foods is essential for a safe and enjoyable BLW experience. Start with soft, easy-to-grasp foods that your baby can hold and explore independently.^2. Good first options include:

• Steamed vegetables such as carrot sticks, broccoli florets, or sweet potato wedges
• Soft fruits like banana, pear, or avocado
• Cooked pasta or soft rice

Avoid foods that are choking hazards, such as whole grapes, nuts, popcorn, or raw carrots. Cut food into manageable sizes, and offer a variety of colours, flavours, and textures to keep mealtimes engaging.

How Can I Keep Baby-Led Weaning Mealtimes Safe?

Safety is the top priority during baby-led weaning. Always supervise your baby while they eat and ensure they are sitting upright in a stable highchair. Avoid foods that are hard, small, or round, and keep an eye out for choking hazards. Remember, gagging is a totally normal reflex when babies start weaning but be sure to keep a close eye in case your baby starts to choke on their food.^3.

Mess is inevitable, but you can prepare to keep cleanup stress-free. Lay a washable mat under the high chair and have baby-friendly wipes on hand, like WaterWipes™, which are gentle enough for your baby’s sensitive skin and perfect for cleaning hands and faces. Using wipes designed for babies makes cleanup fast and easy, so mealtimes stay fun and stress-free. By creating a safe and prepared environment, you can focus on letting your baby explore and enjoy new foods.

When dinner time gets a little bit too messy, be sure to check out our Bathtime Guide for extra help and advice. 

How Do I Encourage My Baby to Explore Foods Without Getting Frustrated?

Baby-led weaning is all about letting your baby lead the experience. Offer a variety of foods and allow your baby to pick up, taste, and explore them at their own pace. Don’t worry if some food ends up on the floor, this is a natural part of learning.

Stay calm and positive during mealtimes. Focus on the experience rather than the amount eaten, celebrate small successes, and offer repeated exposure to new flavours and textures. Over time, your baby will develop confidence in feeding themselves while building a healthy relationship with food.

Key Takeaways

Starting a baby-led weaning journey is about more than introducing solids, it’s about fostering independence, curiosity, and healthy eating habits. To make it successful:

• Watch for signs that your baby is ready before introducing solids
• Offer soft, safe foods that your baby can easily handle
• Prioritize safety and supervision while preparing for a bit of mess
• Encourage exploration and enjoyment without pressuring your baby

With preparation, patience, and a relaxed mindset, baby-led weaning can be a joyful and stress-free milestone for both you and your little one.

If you found this article helpful, be sure to visit the WaterWipes™ Advice and Care Hub for more parenting tips, advice and information.