In child-led weaning, we will find three major stages that will mark the baby's development.
The ages mentioned below are guidelines only, as every baby is different and develops at their own pace. Your role? Observe your baby to continue meeting their needs!
Discovery phase (6 to 7 months)
This period usually lasts a month. During this phase, the baby eats little or not at all (and that's okay!).
This is the period of food discovery. We focus on stimulating the senses : we offer meals with different colours, textures, shapes and smells to attract and stimulate the baby's curiosity.
If you want to know "In what format to offer food to baby" go here .
At first, your baby will observe, touch, and try to bring food to their mouth. You might get the impression that they're playing more than eating . But don't worry, between 6 and 8 months, milk covers more than 80% of their energy needs . So, even if your baby eats little, or almost nothing, their energy needs will be met.
Furthermore, it's important to remember that BLW focuses on independent food exploration . The goal is to let your baby discover what they need and in the right quantities for their body. Your role? Offer high-quality, healthy, and varied foods .
Want to know how to create a "Balanced Plate for Baby in BLW ?", go here .
Development phase (7 to 9 months)
Your baby's interest in food is gradually increasing . They are bringing food to their mouth more easily and can now grasp it with their three fingers (thumb, index, and middle), even if their precision is still a little lacking. It's time to get a little more creative with your recipes . We invite you to take a look at our recipes for babies from 6 months old .
The meal goes more quickly and the baby is less tired at the end of the meal.
Refinement phase (9 to 12 months)
Baby can now use the pincer grasp (picking up food between their thumb and forefinger) and is mastering it better and better. Baby's chewing movements are becoming more repetitive, and we can therefore offer less soft textures . They will also enjoy eating their meals more and more.
This is also the time when you can start introducing the fork by spearing the food and the spoon by pre-filling it. You will let the baby bring the food to their mouth themselves.
Everyone at their own pace
We can't stress this enough: every baby develops at their own pace . Get down to your baby's level and adapt to their needs! Remember that nobody likes to be frustrated, not even a baby! So, be sure to offer them foods that are suitable for them and let them develop at their own rhythm .
Pressure should not be part of baby-led weaning . It should remain a fun experience for both parent and baby.
Photo: © Lune et l'autre
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