BLW

We've been taking a "Baby Led Weaning" approach to solid foods for Marissa.  Up until she recently got sick, she was doing great on solid foods.  Basically, we cut up soft, gummable foods in bite sized pieces and let her decide what she wants to eat.  She is normally very good at eating her food, feeding herself and exploring new tastes and textures.  She got sick last week and it has been a struggle to get her to eat any solids.  I don't know if it's just a phase or if it's because she isn't feeling well.  Hopefully she will be back on track soon!

I know that several of my readers have shown interest in making their own baby food and BLW is a great option.  There are many misconceptions about BLW.  A lot of people think that it's a choking hazard to give a baby bite sized pieces when they don't have any teeth, but it's actually a very safe option for getting your child to eat solids, obviously under close watch.  It teaches them how to move food around in their mouth, chew and to swallow.  We kind of went with a modified BLW approach and started with home made purees first, but many other parents go straight to finger foods. 

This site has some helpful information about BLW as well as recipes, first foods, what to avoid, etc.  Check it out!