You may have heard the term BLW while researching introducing foods. It looks like a technique from another world, but it’s not. Basically, BLW stands for child-led weaning, something like “let the baby feed himself”. That is, instead of spoons and baby food or purees, offer the baby a more solid food to hold and put in his mouth. This doesn’t mean hard food – the food should be firm in texture, yet soft enough for your baby’s gums.
British nurse Gill Rapley, who invented this term, recommends that the method can be used from 6 months of age. But she stresses that it is necessary for the child to be able to sit upright in the chair, supporting the trunk and neck, a fundamental element for the introduction of solid foods. You are probably wondering:
And are the pops left out?
Since BLW claims that the child is the protagonist of his food, being able to choose what he wants and feed himself, baby food is not part of the classic BLW. However, several pediatricians advise parents to use a combined method: starting with pureed food, offered by themselves, and gradually introducing the practice of BLW, giving the child autonomy as he feels safe.
Any guide that, from 9 months, in general, the child is already more ready for this. By doing this, they also ensure that the child eats enough to stay nourished, since, in the beginning, BLW usually takes more time with meals.
But doesn’t it choke on BLW?
Any solid food can choke, including baby food. Therefore, the child must always be accompanied by an adult. Supervision is essential in both cases. Incidentally, during the introduction of food, it is normal for the child to present this suffocation reflex, as he could hinder the new movement he is performing to chew and swallow something other than milk.
One of the secrets is to gradually increase the size of the pieces offered. In this practice, the important thing is that the child has several healthy foods available to pick and try based on his curiosity and hunger.
And the meat, how does the child eat it by itself?
BLW families usually give larger pieces of meat for the baby to suck on.
And how can I start BLW?
When in doubt, always talk to your pediatrician to see if your child is prepared. If you think it’s best to start with a softer diet first, go ahead! But remember that the current recommendation is that the food be offered separately and kneaded with a fork, but not too much so that the child can feel its taste and texture.
If the combination of methods is your option, gradually knead the food less and less, as the child develops and improves chewing and swallowing techniques.
When introducing BLW, know that the food should be cooked through and easy to chew. Carrot, beet and chayote sticks, broccoli and cauliflower sprigs, rice rolled together into a ball, and tomato chunks, zucchini and boiled potatoes are good items to start. When in doubt, try kneading it yourself with your tongue against your palate before offering. And never put food in his mouth – the child must do it himself.
Get ready for dirt
Since children usually make a lot of mess when they eat alone, lining the floor with a plastic towel can be a good idea to keep the floor from getting dirty. Silicone or plastic bibs can help at this stage, and if it’s hot, leave your baby in nappies alone. And don’t rush. On the bright side, you will have moments that will produce amazing and colorful photos.
Remember: the fundamental thing is that the child has lunch with the family and, preferably, eats what the others eat, even if adapted to his chewing ability – this, among other things, is easy for the parents, who do not need to prepare different menus. After all, meals are more than just food to fill your tummy, they’re a time for love and exchange.
It’s still:
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
