What is Baby Led Weaning?
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Baby Led Weaning or BLW is a method of introducing solid foods to babies by allowing them to self-feed finger foods.
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Core principles of BLW, including letting babies take control of their own feeding and allowing them to explore foods at their own pace.
Benefits of Baby Led Weaning:
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Promotes self-regulation: Babies learn to listen to their hunger cues and eat until they are full, fostering healthy eating habits.
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Encourages fine motor skills: Babies develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills as they grasp and manipulate food.
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Supports healthy development: BLW exposes babies to a variety of textures and flavors, promoting adventurous eating habits and reducing picky eating later in life.
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Fosters independence: BLW empowers babies to be active participants in mealtimes and encourages family bonding.
Getting Started with Baby Led Weaning:
When starting baby led weaning (BLW), it's important to wait until your baby is around six months old and shows signs of readiness, such as sitting up unassisted and showing interest in food. Begin by selecting soft, easy-to-grasp finger foods that are appropriate for your baby's developmental stage, such as cooked vegetables, ripe fruits, and pieces of soft cooked meat. Offer these foods in large, easy-to-hold pieces to allow your baby to explore textures and flavors at their own pace. Always supervise your baby closely during mealtimes and be prepared for messes as they learn to navigate feeding themselves. Remember, BLW is about letting your baby take the lead and discover the joy of food on their own terms.