Baby-led weaning: Difference between revisions
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m moved Baby led weaning to Baby-led weaning: Both baby led weaning and baby-led weaning are used, but baby-led weaning is grammatically correct, hence moving. |
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Revision as of 18:50, 27 September 2006
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Baby led weaning involves allowing the breast-fed baby to feed himself by eating finger food from approximately six months and onwards. Formula fed babies should be discussed with a health professional before embarking on this route.
Baby led weaning places the emphasis on exploring taste, texture, colour and smell as the baby sets their own pace for the meal, choosing which foods to concentrate on. Instead of the traditional method of spooning puréed food into the baby's mouth, the baby is presented with a plate of varied finger food from which he may choose. The baby learns most effectively by watching and imitating others, and eating the same food at the same time as his family contributes to a positive weaning experience. At six months babies learn to chew and grasp and this is therefore the ideal time to begin introducing finger food.
Babies are at a lower risk of choking from this method as they are not capable of moving food from the front of the mouth to the back, until they have learnt to chew. In turn, they do not learn to chew until they have learnt to grasp objects and place them in their mouth. Therefore the baby's general development keeps pace with his ability to manage food. Food is not be placed in the baby's mouth for him. If the baby is unable to pick up and grasp the food, he is unable to cope with chewing and swallowing it. Initial attempts often result in very little food ingested as the baby explores textures and tastes, but he will soon start to swallow and digest what is offered. Breastfeeding is continued in conjunction with weaning.
The basic principles:
- Babies are allowed to reject food, which may be offered again at a later date.
- They should not be hurried.
- Water is offered with the meal.
- Initially, fruits and vegetables are given. Harder foods are lightly cooked to make them soft enough to chew on.
- Food given is free of added salt and sugar.
- Food is not cut into bite-sized pieces as these are difficult for the baby to pick up and handle.
- Food that is baton-shaped or has a natural handle (such as a broccoli tree) works best so that the baby can get a good grip and chew one end.
- Foods with a clear danger, such as peanuts, are not offered.