When Baby-Led Weaning Doesn't Work: Rethinking the ‘Rigid’ Approach
When Baby-Led Weaning Doesn't Work: Rethinking the ‘Rigid’ Approach
At Tiny Organics, we’ve always believed in the benefits of Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) - a feeding method where babies are encouraged to self-feed with whole, unprocessed foods right from the start. BLW encourages the introduction of soft vegetables, fruits, and a variety of proteins. The idea is that babies will explore new flavors and textures while developing important skills. But the reality is, BLW doesn’t always work for every family, and that’s perfectly okay!
The popularity of BLW has led many parents to envision their babies happily munching on large pieces of food like roasted chicken legs or huge slices of fruit. However, this can create unrealistic expectations and unnecessary pressure. When BLW doesn’t go as planned, it can lead to stress - for both parents and babies.
The Pressure of "Doing It Right"
Many parents feel pressured to follow BLW as the "right" way to feed their babies. With so much advice and content online, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking BLW is the only option. The problem is that not all babies are ready for whole pieces of food at the same time and some might struggle with the large, difficult-to-handle pieces often recommended.
Instead of adhering rigidly to self-feeding, it’s important to focus on the goal of offering healthy, whole foods in a way that feels manageable for both the baby and the parent. Babies develop at different rates, and some may need more time to adjust to finger foods.
Letting Go of the Dogmatic Approach
One key thing to remember is that there is no "right" way to feed your baby. While some parents feel strongly about following BLW principles, others may find that a more flexible approach works better for their family. It’s okay to introduce purees, mashed foods, or smaller pieces alongside self-feeding. What matters is offering a variety of nutritious foods in a way that works for both of you. Babies can practice self-feeding with smaller, bite-sized pieces like soft vegetables, fruit, or scrambled eggs. Introducing a variety of textures early on can help your baby develop the skills to manage different foods in a safe, enjoyable way.
For busy families, BLW may also not always be practical. Preparing and cutting large pieces of food can be time-consuming and self-feeding can (and likely will!) be messy, and some parents may prefer more convenient options during the early stages of their baby’s development. The focus should be on what works for your family - without the added pressure of trying to meet BLW "standards."
Reframing BLW: The Importance of Textured Finger Foods and A Variety of Flavors
A core principle behind BLW (and the reason we founded Tiny Organics) is the introduction of nutritious, textured finger foods and a wide range of flavors. It’s important to expose your child to different textures and tastes from the start. Research shows that babies who experience a variety of flavors are more likely to develop diverse tastes and be less picky as they grow. This approach also helps babies develop key motor skills like chewing and swallowing, recognize signs of fullness, and foster independence.
Remember, this doesn’t have to mean preparing elaborate meals or following specific food trends; it’s about providing safe, age-appropriate foods in a way that encourages exploration.
Conclusion: Flexibility Over Perfection
When BLW doesn’t work as expected, take a step back and reassess your approach. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and it’s okay if BLW doesn’t fit your family’s needs.
The early introduction of whole, unprocessed foods is important, but remember that babies develop at their own pace. A flexible approach will allow your baby to build a healthy, lifelong relationship with food - without the added pressure of perfection. Feeding should be as fun and stress-free as possible, and every baby will get there in their own time. Do what works for your family - we’re here to support you on this exciting journey.