Moving on to finger foods? Follow our baby-led weaning checklist
Wondering when to start baby food? Most babies are ready to start trying at around six months. Baby-led weaning, where your baby feeds himself fingers foods, is a great way to help her discover new flavors and textures at his own pace. Here are some tips to get your baby started on his solid foods adventure.
- Aim for “finger foods”. A piece your baby can hold in his fist with a bit sticking out.
- Aim for foods that break up easily in the mouth to reduce the risk of choking.
- Avoid hard foods such as raw carrots to begin with.
- Try to offer your baby a variety of baby-led weaning food suitable for their age. This can include fruit (soft or cooked without added sugar), vegetables (soft cooked), boiled eggs, cooked starchy foods such as potatoes, pasta, rice, noodles, legumes like beans and lentils, meat, fish without bones, and sticks of pasteurized, full-fat hard cheese.
- Babies do occasionally gag when they move on to solid foods. This is different to choking so it’s important to be aware of the difference and what to do in case of either. The risk of choking is no higher with baby-led weaning than traditional spoon-feeding. It’s good to prepare yourself in the event of a choking incident.
- Never leave your baby to eat on their own.
- Try to incorporate your baby’s food adventures into family mealtimes so they can feel involved and copy what the rest of the family is doing.
- Be prepared for the mess. Some parents find placing a non-slip wipeable tablecloth, or floor mat under baby’s highchair can help with the clear-up. Check out what other handy items you might need for moving onto solid foods here.
- Remember it’s all about exploration and discovery, let your baby lead the way!
SOURCES:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/solid-foods-weaning/
https://www.babycentre.co.uk/a1007100/baby-led-weaning
https://www.redcross.org.uk/first-aid/learn-first-aid-for-babies-and-children/choking-baby
Related articles
Overcoming breastfeeding problems
Overcome breastfeeding challenges with expert tips on addressing latching difficulties, ensuring a healthy and comfortable experience for you and your baby.
6 mins to read
Everything you need to know about your breastfeeding diet
Get to know more about the c-sections, how they are done, the risk and how to take care of yourself after the procedure. Click here and learn everything about it.
4 mins to read
Baby’s First Foods: Everything You Need to Know
Your baby’s first foods are important to start his healthy nutrition habits, click here to read more about it.
4 mins to read
How to Start Complementary Feeding
Around the age of 6 month old your baby will be needing more energy and nutrients than breastmilk will provide. Find some pro tips on how to start complementary feeding.
3 mins to read
Combination feeding checklist
Combination feeding, also known as mixed feeding, with bottle and breast can take a while for you and baby to adjust to. Here are some combination feeding tips to make it easier.
2 mins to read
Baby allergies and intolerances: everything you need to know
If you are worried about baby allergies and intolerances, click here to learn more about what you can do and some important recommendations.
4 mins to read
Family Meals for Toddlers
Explore how family meals for toddlers can boost their development and create lasting bonds. Find tips on making mealtime fun and nutritious with easy, toddler-friendly recipes.
5 mins to read
Breastfeeding comebacks for unwanted questions
Fed up of everyone having an opinion on your breastfeeding? This list reads what NOT to say to a breastfeeding mom.
2 mins to read
Your toddler, the independent eater
-
2 mins to read
How To Help a Picky Eater
Learn more about how to help your baby when he becomes a picky eater. Click here to read about some tips and alert signs.
5 mins to read
Guide to a Healthy Toddler Diet
Knowing how to provide a healthy toddler diet can lead to your little one having a lifetime of healthy eating.
5 mins to read
Solid Infant Food: Next Steps
While introducing your baby to his first infant solid food there is a lot to have in mind, click here to learn everything you need to know.
5 mins to read
Breastfeeding essentials
Planning to breastfeed but not sure what you’ll need? Here is a list of our first-time breastfeeding tips to help you prepare.
2 mins to read
Baby Teething Tips
Learn how to recognize teething signs, soothe pain, and prepare for teething with expert advice for parents.
5 mins to read
Tips for potty training for toddlers
Find out when to start potty training, key tips for success, and signs your toddler is ready. Make this milestone a positive and stress-free experience.
5 mins to read
Understanding Pregnancy Pains and discomfort
Understand pregnancy pains, their causes, and warning signs. Learn what discomforts are normal and when to contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
5 mins to read
How to deal with colics in babies
Learning about colics in babies, how they happen and how to sooth your child might be beneficial to your daily life as a new parent.
5 mins to read
Your baby proofing action plan
Protect your baby with effective baby proofing strategies. Discover essential tips to make your home safer as your little one begins to explore and grow.
6 mins to read
Related tools
