Starting Solids: A Parent’s Guide to Baby-Led Weaning & First Foods

Introduction

Starting solids is an exciting milestone for both babies and parents! Whether you choose baby-led weaning (BLW) or a traditional approach, introducing new foods is an important step in your baby’s development. But with so much advice out there, where do you start? This guide will walk you through the basics of baby-led weaning, the best first foods to try, and how to introduce a variety of flavours and textures safely.

What Is Baby-Led Weaning?

✔ Baby-led weaning (BLW) is an approach where babies feed themselves rather than being spoon-fed purées.
✔ It encourages independent eating, fine motor skills, and a positive relationship with food.
✔ Babies eat soft, safe finger foods from the start rather than purees.
✔ Typically starts at 6 months, when babies can sit up and show signs of readiness.

"Learn more about starting solids and meal textures in our FAQs."

Best First Foods for Baby-Led Weaning

When starting BLW, choose nutrient-dense, soft foods that are easy for babies to grasp and chew.

🛒 Iron-Rich Foods:
✔ Soft-cooked meat (e.g., Beef Bolognaise with Marrow)
✔ Salmon (e.g., Salmon Risotto)
✔ Lentils & chickpeas (e.g., Coconut Lentil Curry)

🥦 Vegetables:
✔ Steamed broccoli, carrots, and zucchini
✔ Mashed sweet potato (e.g., Sweet Beet Quinoa)

🍎 Fruits:
✔ Ripe avocado slices
✔ Soft banana or steamed apple

📝 Pro Tip: Babies need iron-rich foods from 6 months to support growth and brain development.

📌 How to Introduce New Flavours & Textures

✔ Start with single-ingredient foods before offering mixed meals.
✔ Offer a variety of textures (e.g., mashed, fork-mashable, soft finger foods).
✔ Pair complementary flavours to expand baby’s palate.

📝 Example Meal Pairings:
✔ Sweet Beet Quinoa + Greek Yoghurt for added creaminess
✔ Chimichurri Meatballs + Soft vegetable sticks for texture
✔ Coconut Lentil Curry + Toast fingers for dipping

📌 Safety Tips for Starting Solids

✔ Always supervise mealtimes.
✔ Serve soft, age-appropriate textures.
✔ Offer manageable portions—no small, hard foods that could pose a choking risk.
✔ Follow your baby’s cues—let them explore and self-feed.

📌 Conclusion & Call to Action

Starting solids is a fun and important milestone that helps shape healthy eating habits for life. Whether you choose baby-led weaning or a mixed approach, the key is to provide nutrient-dense, flavourful meals that support growth and development.

🥄 Want to make mealtimes easier? Explore our All-In Bundle for a variety of baby-friendly, nutrient-rich meals!