How to start

Getting started with Baby Led Weaning is relatively simple. When your baby is around 6 months old, is able to sit with little or no support and is able to grasp objects and get them to his mouth relatively easily, it may be time to start offering your baby some real food.

Want some more information on when to start solids? Click here to read more.

Here are some tips and ideas to get you started.

1. Have your baby sitting upright, secured in a highchair or sitting comfortably on your lap. Your baby must not be leaning backwards. Sitting upright allows your baby to have greater control over the food in their mouth and makes it easier from them to gag food up if necessary.
2. You want to offer your baby pieces of food that are easy to hold but also soft enough for your baby to mash between their gums. When starting out it is a good idea to cut food into ‘baton’ shapes that are long enough for your baby to hold on one end and eat from the other.
3. In the early days it is best to offer your baby his milk feeds as normal. In the first 12 months, breastmilk (or formula) is your babies main source of nutrition and all other foods complement these milk feeds.
4. It is best when starting out to offer food in the earlier part of the day. This allows you the rest of the day to watch your baby for any signs of a reaction.
5. Invest in some bibs, the ones with the pouch are ideal, and be prepared for some mess. At the beginning your baby is learning about food. He will pick up, lick, taste, munch, drop and sometimes throw his food around.
6. It is imperative that you do not pressure your baby to eat. It is your job as your baby’s caregiver to provide your baby with a variety of healthy foods and it is your baby’s job to choose how much to eat. This is the foundation of a successful Healthy Feeding Relationship.
7. Always supervise your baby when he is eating and never leave him alone with food.

Need some ideas for Baby Led Weaning friendly first foods? Click here for some ideas.