Baby-led weaning

What is baby-led weaning?

• Baby-led weaning means letting your baby feed themselves soft finger foods instead of giving them purees with a spoon.
• Baby-led weaning is safe if the foods are prepared safely and your baby is developmentally ready to feed themselves.

Should I try baby-led weaning?

• Not all babies are ready for soft finger foods at 6 months. By around 8 months most babies should be able to eat soft finger foods.
• If you are worried about letting your baby feed themselves, start slow.
• You do not have to choose one way to feed your baby. You can give your baby puree foods and soft finger foods.

Whether you start spoon-feeding or baby-led weaning, you should always follow your baby’s cues or signs. Watch for signs they are hungry and want food. Give them food when they show interest. Stop when they are telling you they have eaten enough.

Your baby is ready to feed themselves soft finger foods if they can:

• Sit upright
• Hold their head steady (so their head is not wobbling)
• Pick up food and put it in their mouth

What finger foods can I give my baby?

It is important to prepare foods in a safe way to lower the chance of choking. First finger foods should be very soft and easy to squash or mash between your fingers with little pressure. A baby does not need teeth to eat soft finger foods.

Examples of finger foods:

• Soft-cooked vegetables
• Strips of very soft meat or fish (with no bones
• Soft fruit chunks
• Boiled eggs
• Toast fingers with a soft spread, such as cottage cheese or avocado

Read our recipes for more ideas about what to feed your baby.