Is baby-led weaning the best way to introduce solids?
As your little one approaches 6 months of age, they’ll be getting ready to start solid foods. You may have started to wonder what this process might look like for your family. There are a lot of considerations and questions that can come up when you’re planning for a solid food introduction, which is completely understandable as this might be a new experience for both you and your baby!
One of the most common questions on introducing solids is whether or not baby-led weaning (BLW) is the best method to use. There are a lot of different (and strong!) opinions out there on this topic, so it can become overwhelming to make a decision. We’ve got you covered!
Here’s everything you need to know about baby-led weaning to help you decide on the best approach for your family.
What is baby-led weaning?
Baby-led weaning is an approach to introducing solid foods that skips over the pureed foods stage and starts straight away with solid finger foods. It involves allowing your baby to self-feed with finger foods that are prepared in age-appropriate ways to help reduce choking risk. The alternative to baby-led weaning would involve using a “traditional” approach by starting your baby on pureed foods and using spoon feeding techniques. The main difference between BLW and a traditional approach is a difference in the textures that are offered, which also changes the feeding method that may be favoured.
Are there benefits to using baby-led weaning?
Baby-led weaning does have possible benefits, however it’s important to keep in mind that a lot more research is needed in this area. Most studies are not conclusive, which is why it’s important to focus on a variety of factors including: how the process is working for your family, what your baby’s nutrient intake looks like, and how their growth is overall. Some possible benefits to BLW include:
Developing independent feeding skills
Helping your baby to eat in line with their appetite and satiety cues
Supporting meal dynamics as your baby is eating the same foods as the rest of the family
Supporting motor and oral skill development
What are some possible drawbacks of baby-led weaning?
One of the biggest concerns that parents often have with baby-led weaning is the risk of choking. Research typically shows that choking risk does not differ between BLW and a traditional approach. However, the same literature review does show some possible drawbacks including:
Impact on weight, with some studies showing that children using a baby-led weaning approach were more likely to be classified as underweight
Impact on nutrient intake, as your baby’s intake is dependent on their self-feeding
Increased meal time messes and clean ups, which can vary based on the foods served
So which approach is right for my baby?
A very important consideration in deciding on your approach to introducing solids is reflecting on your comfort as a parent. Some parents feel less comfortable jumping straight to finger foods, and that’s okay! If you are anticipating that you may feel nervous and have anxious responses to your baby’s gag reflex that may be triggered more often with BLW, choosing to start in a way that feels comfortable to you is absolutely okay.
Another important thing to note is that every single baby is different in how they respond to solid food introductions. Some baby’s absolutely love finger foods, while others are less inclined to them and take well to pureed options. It’s okay to take your baby’s lead by noticing their textural preferences and feeding in a way that’s responsive to this. This could include jumping into a variety of textures, or more gradual texture progression based on your little one’s response.
Finally, you also want to be responsive to your child’s intake and their growth. Working with your baby’s healthcare provider’s to understand if their growth is on track can help you to make choices about what their mealtimes look like.
Parents often feel like they have to choose one approach or another-- however, this isn't the case! It can work well to use a combined approach, as both traditional purees and baby-led weaning have benefits and drawbacks.
The process of introducing solids to your baby can come with a lot of questions! If you’re looking for tailored one-on-one support, book a complimentary meet & greet call with our registered dietitian today!
