Baby-Led Weaning
When I used to think of becoming a mom, I, of course, thought of all the amazing things that my role would entail, but it also scared/intimidated me. I guess you can blame my sign, I am a Sagittarius, and therefore, I strive when I have independence. I was worried that I would lose any and all freedoms when I became a mother. I knew in order for me to be the best mother to my child. However, also preserve my sanity, I would have to find a balance of both worlds. Fortunately, after doing lots of research, I quickly realized I can raise a child in a way that gives them freedom of choice and also give me room to breathe as well!
WHAT IS BABY LED WEANING?
Baby-led weaning is a method of feeding that skips purees and the making of baby foods. Parents and/or caregivers provide soft and safe foods for the infant to pick up and eat on his or her own. It is an infant-led method of feeding, where the parent/caregiver sits back and watches the infant take charge of feeding him or herself. Not only is this method of feeding very fun for both parents and children (putting aside all the mess it creates), research has shown again and again how beneficial BLW is for practicing fine motor skills. In addition, research says it reduces the likelihood of a picky eater and encourages a healthy relationship with food. I am not sure how accurate the picky eater statement is, but I sure hope that is the case!
WHY did IT work FOR US?
It worked for us because I was able to save time in the kitchen. I didn’t have to puree food for Harnaya. I didn’t have to spend extra money on prepared purees either. It made meal time so much fun. Haman and I both very much looked forward to dinner time every day because the three of us would sit together at the table and enjoy our meal. We loved watching Harnaya’s reaction to the new foods she would try.
It also worked for us because if we had family babysit Harnaya, we did not have to worry about making and preparing her meals before we left her with them. She ate whatever was made. It made going out to restaurants a breeze. In fact, we went out so much more once she started BLW. She tried so many new things every time we went out to eat and it reassured us of that balance that Haman and I both were worried about. We loved going out to new restaurants and were relieved when Harnaya loved these new experiences just as much!
Baby-led weaning has allowed us to be better parents. We both balanced being parents, being a couple, and also being ourselves. I am so glad we pursued it and will continue recommending it to all parents!
