Baby-led weaning or purées?

3 min read

There is no single right way to start. In baby-led weaning (BLW) your baby feeds themselves soft finger foods from the start. With purées, you spoon-feed smooth food and move to lumps and finger foods over time. Many families do a mix, and that works well.

Both can be safe and nutritious. What matters is the same in each: a baby who sits upright and is ready, foods prepared in the right shape, an iron-rich food every day, and your baby setting the pace.

If you use purées, do not stay on smooth food for too long. Offer lumpier textures from about 7 to 9 months, and finger foods early. Babies who meet textures late can find them harder.

If you choose BLW, offer a variety of foods, including iron-rich ones, and expect a lot of mess and a slow start. Preloaded spoons with yogurt or mash are fine in BLW, too. Choose the way that fits your family and stay flexible.