Back to school is approaching, or perhaps it's simply the time when baby will be entrusted to a new form of care: nursery, childminder, nanny, grandparents… And then, a big question is on your mind: “How do I deal with
BLW BLW ”
No panic 🙃: Baby-Led Weaning can adapt very well to all situations, provided you are well prepared and above all… well communicated.
Explain your choice to those around you
First of all, take the time to explain what motivated you to choose BLW :
Its immediate benefits for baby (fine motor skills, autonomy, the pleasure of discovering flavors and textures on his own).
Its positive long-term impact (self-confidence, good relationship with food, taste curiosity).
And a bonus point that will surely please: a time saving ! Once baby is used to it, less puree to prepare and fewer spoonfuls to give 😉.
The more clearly and kindly you share your reasons, the more those around you will understand that it is not a whim, but a real, considered choice.
Once that's done, two situations will present themselves to you, and in both cases, BLW will be entirely possible !
👉 If the person looking after the baby is OK with BLW
Great news! 🎉 Start BLW Breast Milk Weaning) gently at home, at your own pace. Initially, when your baby is in daycare, they can absolutely continue exclusively with breast milk or formula. No pressure: milk remains their primary food until they are 1 year old.
Gradually, as your baby becomes more comfortable with solid foods, invite the caregiver to join you for a meal. Seeing how your baby manages will reassure them, and you can take this opportunity to teach them essential safety rules .
Position the baby correctly, sitting with their back straight.
Offer suitable pieces (size, texture, format).
Never force: baby eats at their own pace.
Knowing how to recognize the gag reflex (normal and safe!).
Little by little, those around you will gain confidence… and baby will be delighted to share meals somewhere other than at home!
👉 If the person looking after the baby is not comfortable with BLW
Don't panic! This doesn't mean all is lost, nor that you should abandon your project. You can very well adopt a "hybrid" approach:
At daycare or with a nanny: purees, compotes or yogurts offered with a spoon, possibly with pre-filled spoons so that baby can participate.
At home: BLW continues as normal, letting baby explore, touch, taste and eat independently.
In this way, baby enjoys the best of both worlds: adapting to his environment while continuing his learning at home.
In summary
The BLW Baby Welfare) should not be a source of stress when choosing childcare arrangements. The important thing is to:
Inform and reassure those around you.
Gradually adjust the meals.
Keep faith in your choice (and in baby 🥰).
Remember: every child develops at their own pace, and every childcare arrangement has its constraints. But with a little communication and flexibility, BLW BLW has its place perfectly… even outside the home!
And then, between us… baby is not the only one to learn: sometimes, it is the adults who discover a new way of looking at food thanks to him 😉.
