Introducing solids is such an exciting milestone, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming with so many different approaches and opinions out there!
Two popular methods are purees (spoon-feeding mashed or blended foods) and Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) (offering appropriately sized finger foods for baby to self-feed). Some parents even choose a combination of both, adapting to what works best for their little one and their family lifestyle.
Regardless of the method, safety is paramount. Remember to offer single-ingredient foods first, introduce allergens cautiously, and always supervise meals closely.
What approach did you take when starting solids with your baby, and what were your biggest wins or challenges? Any go-to first foods you’d recommend?
We went full BLW with our first, and it was a messy but incredibly rewarding experience! Our little one loved exploring textures and really took to self-feeding. Our biggest win was how quickly she learned to manage different foods. The challenge? The cleanup, no doubt! Avocados and roasted sweet potato spears were huge hits early on.
We did a mix, which felt like the best of both worlds. Started with some smooth purees (especially for things like iron-fortified cereal) to get the hang of spoon-feeding, and then quickly introduced soft finger foods like steamed broccoli florets and banana chunks. It gave us confidence she was getting enough nutrients while still letting her explore. Don’t be afraid to experiment and see what your baby enjoys!