Baby Led Weaning

Baby led weaning is letting your baby feed them selves from the outset when introducing solids. With BLW, the babies learn to chew first and swallowing might come some time later, as opposed to traditional weaning where babies learn to swallow first and chew later.

Its important when using baby-led weaning that you don't rush things. Your baby should be able to sit unaided easily before weaning starts. Waiting until six months is recommended by the NHS in majority of cases.

The easiest finger foods for young babies are those that are chip-shaped. Use a crinkle cutter when you’re cutting fruit and veg, as the ridges will make it easier for your baby to grip the food. 

At first, your baby may just play with the food. He may grab pieces of food with his fist and start to suck on them.

The best time to introduce solids to your little one is when you and your family are eating. It's a great way for him to join in at mealtimes, and with baby led weaning, no need to cook separate meals - just watch salt and sugar content!

An easy-to-clean high chair is a real benefit when baby-led weaning, because your baby is likely to throw, spill, and generally lose most of her meals. A shower curtain or other wipe clean sheet is a great idea for putting under the high chair and making cleaning up easier.

Remember, ‘food is for fun before they’re one’, so see weaning as a sensory experience and messy play for the first few months and a lot of food will be thrown around! Perfect practice for a cake smash session for their first birthday!

Good information can be found here:

http://www.babyledweaning.com/some-tips-to-get-you-started/

Gill Rapley's Baby Led Weaning book

https://littlegourmetbaby.com/whats-blw/
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http://www.babyledweaningideas.com/our-journey/

Some yummy recipes can be found here:

https://mykidslickthebowl.com/baby-led-weaning-muffins-apple-banana-carrot/

http://littlegrazers.com/sweet-potato-lentil-and-cheddar-croquettes/

https://www.netdoctor.co.uk/healthy-eating/recipes/a28411/potato-bites-baby-recipe/

http://www.myminimeals.com/3-ingredient-sweet-potato-biscones/

http://mylovelylittlelunchbox.com/2015/05/20/mighty-morning-muffins/

https://www.organix.com/recipes/carrot-and-cheese-bakes

Please note - I do not think cake the best first food!
​Cake should be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle and of course for birthday celebrations!