Baby-led weaning can be a whirlwind of constant googling and loads of store runs, all things we don’t have time for when we have a kiddo this little. Here are the healthiest and easiest meals for your kiddo on their baby-lead weaning journey.
Why do we even introduce finger food first? According to the Solid Starts team, “babies were born to eat. Around 6 months of age, most babies feed themselves finger foods—even if they have no teeth.” The experts also say that “by offering finger food first, you enable your baby to set the pace, to practice critical skills, and to discover the joy of eating.” With that said, let’s get into the best baby-led weaning meals you can provide your kiddo.
A few notes before you begin, make sure the food is smashable and easily held in their hand.
AVOCADO
This is one of the first foods you can introduce. It’s creamy, loaded with good fats, and soft!
BANANA
Another soft and sweet food your baby will love!
SWEET POTATO
A no-brainer here, who doesn’t love a warm sweet potato? Remember to take off the skin, which can pose a chocking hazard.
OATMEAL
Instant oats is the way to go here. Heat it up in milk, formula, or water.
CARROTS
Soft-cooked carrots are a great nutritional food for your kiddo.
PEARS
I have never met a baby that didn’t like pears! Make sure these are soft and smashable. You can also use mangos or soft apples based on their preference.
BROCCOLI
Cooked broccoli with a hint of pink salt is a great way to introduce greens to your kiddo.
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GROUND CHICKEN
You can also use ground grass-fed beef. Be careful with meat as this can cause choking. It’s not as soft in texture as the other foods on the list
HAPPY BABY PUFFS
Puffs are not only nutritional but have a melting component when your baby pops them in their mouth.
ALLERGENS
EGGS
Eggs can be introduced as early as 6 months. Remember that this is a common food allergen for our kiddos, so please consider the risk factors. Start small when introducing eggs and watch for any signs of allergic reactions or sensitivities. Scrambled eggs or hard boiled eggs are usually a huge hit!
PEANUTS
Another allergen can be introduced as soon as your kiddo is ready to start solids. A small amount of peanut butter will do the trick. Remember to watch for allergic reactions and food sensitivities. We have even heard of parents going into the ER parking lot just to try it!
YOGURT (1-year-old)
This one can get a bit messy, but it’s an easy introduction to food that isn’t breast milk or formula. It’s also a good introduction to see if your little one has a food intolerance to milk. We love Siggi’s yogurt.
