Let’s Talk About: Baby-Led Weaning
Have you ever wondered about baby-led weaning? Has the term ever sparked curiosity or perhaps even confusion? Not to worry, we’re here to clear the air, answer your queries and gear you up for this exciting journey with your little one.
So, what is baby-led weaning?
It’s an enchanting process where your baby takes the reins at meal times. Imagine your little one handling finger-sized pieces of food and happily eating on their own accord. Yes, it can and does turn into a messy affair with bits of food found in the most unexpected corners, but believe us, the advantages are worth it..
This self-feeding method is widely embraced to introduce solids to babies. It’s a practical and playful way for babies to master chewing before swallowing. Baby-led weaning offers your child the liberty to decide what and how much they wish to consume.
The Perks of Baby-Led Weaning
Baby-led weaning is a breeze compared to spending lots of money on costly baby foods or making your own purees. Instead, it fosters an environment where your baby can join in on family meals, boosting their social skills and understanding of how various foods are consumed.
This approach paves the way for healthy eating habits from an early age. By letting your child explore and savour foods on their own, they develop a sense of joy and independence in their food choices. This might even nip any potential food fussiness in the bud as they grow. (Because who wants a fussy eater, right?)
Additionally, it’s not just about the food. It’s also a golden opportunity for you to introduce more advanced concepts to your child, enhancing their understanding of the world around them.
When is the Right Time?
As per the Ministry of Health, baby-led weaning can be initiated from the age of 6 months. However, every baby is unique and some might be ready slightly earlier or later. Here are some milestones that suggest your little one is ready for solids based on international guidelines:
- Your baby can hold their head upright, without support. This is crucial for self-feeding and swallowing.
- Your baby can sit upright, even with some back support from a chair.
- Your baby has outgrown their tongue thrust reflex and can now swallow food.
- Your baby can signal they’re full, either by shaking their head or pulling away, even without using words.
First Foods to Try
Once your child is comfortable with chunky puree, you can introduce bite-sized and soft, mushy foods like:
- Ripe fruits such as avocado, banana, mango, and kiwi
- Cooked veggies like carrots, peas, corn, and potatoes
- Cooked pasta
- Stewed meats like chicken or fish
Initially, offer small portions of 2 or 3 different foods on your child’s plate and let them decide their favourites. Top up as needed, ensure water is within reach, and be there to supervise and support your child throughout the meal.
Baby-led weaning could well turn your child into a budding food enthusiast too! As they experiment with new foods and flavours, their innate curiosity will push them to venture into more ‘exotic’ culinary territories. And remember, mess is a big part of the fun—it’s all part of broader developmental lessons that will help your child grasp more complex ideas.