Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) Method: A Simple Guide. Dr. Narmin Azizova

Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) Method: A Simple Guide

By Dr. Narmin Azizova
Neonatologist, Department of Neonatal Resuscitation and Intensive Therapy, Scientific Research Institute of Pediatrics named after K.Y. Farajova; Department of Pediatrics I, Azerbaijan Medical University; Founder, Pediatriya.az

What is BLW?

BLW (Baby-Led Weaning) is a feeding method where babies start eating solid foods by feeding themselves instead of being spoon-fed. It encourages independence and helps babies explore food through touch, taste, and smell.

Benefits of BLW

• Makes eating fun and enjoyable.
• Helps babies explore food using their hands.
• Develops taste, smell, and texture recognition.
• Boosts confidence and fine motor skills.
• Improves hand-eye coordination for future tasks like writing.
• Encourages natural chewing movements.
• Teaches appetite control—babies eat as much as they need.
• Promotes healthy eating habits.
• Saves money since babies eat family meals.
• Helps with social skills by allowing babies to join family meals.

Drawbacks of BLW

• Babies will make a mess while eating. Parents need patience!

Signs Your Baby is Ready for BLW

Babies can start BLW around 6 months if they:
✔ Sit with little or no support.
✔ Reach for objects and bring them to their mouth.
✔ Show chewing movements.
✔ Grab food and try to eat it.

By 9 months, hand coordination improves, making self-feeding easier.

Important BLW Tips

✔ Baby should sit upright and be comfortable.
✔ Avoid feeding when the baby is too hungry, tired, or restless.
✔ Focus on food exploration, not how much they eat.
✔ Offer foods in long strips (~5 cm) for an easy grip.
✔ Food should be soft enough to chew but not too mushy.
✔ Serve food in a bowl instead of handing it directly.
✔ Eat with your baby to encourage learning.
✔ Always check that food isn’t left in the baby’s mouth after meals.
✔ Use a blanket under the high chair to catch spills.
✔ Never leave your baby alone while eating to prevent choking.
✔ Be patient—learning to use a spoon and fork takes time!

Best Starter Foods for BLW

🥕 Steamed vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, broccoli.
🍎 Fruits: Apples, pears, bananas (cut into small pieces).
⚠ Remove seeds from fruits before serving.
🥣 For soups or mashed foods, offer steamed veggies on the side for self-feeding.

If your baby struggles with BLW, continue offering mashed foods while encouraging hand-feeding. Over time, they will adapt.

Many parents find BLW helps their children eat a variety of foods without being picky. However, every baby is different—be patient and enjoy the journey! 😊