Introducing solids is one of the biggest milestones in a baby’s first year. But as a parent, you’re quickly faced with a big question—do you go the traditional route with purees, or dive into baby-led weaning (BLW)?

When my little one started showing interest in food, I was deep into research mode (as always). Spoon-feeding purees seemed safe and easy, but then I came across baby-led weaning, where babies feed themselves from the start. No blending, no spoon battles—just real food, real learning, and a whole lot of mess.

So, what’s the best method? Let’s break it down.

What Is Baby-Led Weaning?

Baby-led weaning (BLW) is a feeding approach where babies skip purees and spoon-feeding and go straight to finger foods. Instead of being fed, they learn to self-feed from the very first bite.

✨ How It Works:
✔️ Baby eats soft, safe finger foods from 6 months old.
✔️ No spoon-feeding—baby controls what & how much they eat.
✔️ Focus on nutrient-dense whole foods.
✔️ Encourages independence, fine motor skills & healthy eating habits.

🚨 What You Need to Know:

• BLW requires close supervision to ensure safety.
• Foods must be cut into appropriate sizes to prevent choking.
• Some parents worry about how much baby actually eats.

What Is Traditional Weaning?

Traditional weaning (spoon-feeding) starts with purees before transitioning to mashed and finger foods over time.

✨ How It Works:
✔️ Baby starts with smooth purees and moves to textured foods later.
✔️ Parents control portions & feeding pace.
✔️ Great for tracking how much baby eats.
✔️ Often combined with BLW for a mixed approach.

🚨 What You Need to Know:

• Spoon-feeding can delay self-feeding skills if used for too long.
• Babies may become dependent on being fed instead of learning hunger cues.

Which Method Is Better?

Neither method is “better”—it depends on what works best for your baby and family! Many parents even do a combination of both.

📌 BLW Might Be Best If:
✔️ You want to encourage independence early on.
✔️ You prefer baby to eat the same meals as the family.
✔️ Your baby shows strong chewing & grasping skills.

📌 Traditional Weaning Might Be Best If:
✔️ You want more control over baby’s portions.
✔️ You’re concerned about choking.
✔️ Your baby prefers smoother textures.

💡 A Mixed Approach (BLW + Purees) can be a great balance, offering variety while ensuring baby gets enough nutrients.

Safety Tips for Both Methods

✔️ Wait until 6 months when baby can sit up unassisted.
✔️ Always supervise during meals.
✔️ Offer soft, age-appropriate foods to avoid choking risks.
✔️ Introduce one new food at a time to watch for allergies.
✔️ Follow baby’s hunger & fullness cues instead of forcing food.

Final Thoughts: Do What Works for YOU!

There’s no right or wrong way to introduce solids. Some babies love picking up food, others prefer the spoon. The goal is to make eating fun, safe, and stress-free for both of you!

📌 Which method are you trying (or did you use)? BLW, purees, or both? Drop your experience in the comments! 👇