It’s no surprise that more and more parents are looking to incorporate baby-led weaning into their baby’s routine, with research showing that it can help to reduce fussiness, build confidence and make mealtimes a more social experience. But, with so much conflicting advice out there it’s natural to feel a little anxious when first starting out, so with that, I wanted to share my top 10 tips for baby-lead weaning success!
Annabel Karmel
Make sure your baby is ready
She should be able to sit in a highchair unassisted, have developed sufficient hand-to-eye coordination to pick up food and put it in her mouth and will have lost the tongue-thrust reflex (automatically pushing solids out of her mouth with her tongue). She will also be showing signs that she wants to join in family mealtimes.
Start with soft finger foods
Fresh fruit and lightly steamed or roasted vegetables cut into wedges or batons are ideal. Babies will need to be able to close their hand around the food so start with pieces that are big enough for them to hold in their fist with some sticking out. Fairly long pieces (roughly 5–6cm) are more likely to get picked up.
Let them take control
They must learn to move foods safely around their mouth so make sure you let your baby pick up food themselves and don’t be tempted to put food in their mouth. This way they will only pick up what they can manage.
Prepare for mess
Place the food straight onto the highchair tray or choose a highchair without a tray and bring it up to the table and put the food straight on there. Wipe-clean bibs and splash mats are also key baby-led weaning essentials!
Dine together
Baby-led weaning helps to make family mealtimes a social experience. Sitting round the table together as a family is important in developing your baby’s social skills. Baby-led weaning can make mealtimes easier too – dishes you are eating as a family can also be enjoyed by baby from the very start of their weaning journey (just be sure to leave out the salt).
Don’t rush them
Baby-led weaning is all about your baby choosing what, how much, and how quickly to eat.
Familiarise yourself with high-risk foods
Make yourself aware of the foods which your baby shouldn’t eat under the age of 12 months.
Be flexible
No ‘one-size-fits-all’ when it comes to weaning, it’s all about going at your baby’s pace. My new Baby-Led Weaning Recipe Book is perfect for those wanting to do exclusive baby-led weaning as well as those looking to combine finger foods and family meals alongside failsafe nutrient-rich purees.
Don’t forget milk
Babies should be given breast or formula milk for the entire first year. She’ll gradually consume less breast milk or formula in favour of solid foods, although between six months and one year, your baby will still need 500-600ml of breastmilk or formula each day.
Stay safe
I encourage all new parents to become familiar with First Aid procedures for children, especially if they are concerned about choking risks when they start weaning. Refer to the Red Cross or NHS websites which have instructional step-by-step videos or ask your GP about local First Aid courses.
Good luck!
Whether you’re about to wean and thinking of exploring the baby-led weaning approach, or simply looking for new baby-friendly finger foods and family meals to liven up your mealtimes, Annabel Karmel’s new Baby-Led Weaning Recipe Book is out now and filled with 120 quick, easy and nutritious recipes, essential advice and tips to let your baby take the lead. Visit www.annabelkarmel.com for more information.