When it comes to introducing solid foods, many parents find themselves asking the same question: Should I start with spoon-feeding, baby-led weaning, or something in between?
Traditionally, spoon-feeding purees has been a common first step. This method supports oral motor skill development and offers valuable bonding time, as parents interact closely with their baby during meals. For some, it also feels reassuring to clearly see how much food makes it into their baby’s mouth.
On the other hand, baby-led weaning (BLW) has gained popularity in recent years. This approach encourages babies to explore nutritious finger foods at their own pace, helping to develop fine motor skills, chewing ability, and independence.
Read: Baby-led weaning vs Spoon feeding?
But what if you don’t want to choose just one method?
That’s where baby-led feeding comes in.
What Is Baby-Led Feeding?
Baby-led feeding (BLF) combines the best of both worlds: baby-led weaning and responsive spoon feeding in a more flexible and practical approach to starting solids.
With baby-led feeding, you decide what foods to offer whether finger foods, purees, or both but your baby decides how much and whether to eat. The focus isn’t on how food is served, but on who is in control: your child.
Finger foods are encouraged as the main source of solid foods, allowing babies to pick up food, bring it to their mouth, and self-feed — a key principle of baby-led weaning.
At the same time, purees are also welcome when needed. There are many valid reasons parents may choose to offer purees, and baby-led feeding supports this without guilt or strict rules.
The key is responsiveness.
When spoon-feeding, parents are encouraged to closely observe their baby’s hunger and fullness cues. Is your baby opening their mouth and leaning forward? That’s a sign they’re ready to eat. Is their mouth closed, head turned away, or attention drifting? That’s your cue to pause or stop. Even at this young age, babies are capable of deciding if and how much they want to eat.
In short, baby-led feeding is not about control — it’s about trust. Know more about your child’s fullness and hunger cues.
Want to learn how to apply this approach at home? Read our guide on How to Practice Baby-Led Feeding.
Important Safety Tips for Baby-Led Feeding
Safety is a crucial part of any solid-food journey. Whether you’re offering finger foods, purees, or both, keep these baby-led feeding safety tips in mind:
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Avoid choking hazards, including:
Nuts, seeds, whole cherries or grapes, large chunks of cheese or meat, apples with skin, raw vegetables, hard fruits, popcorn, and foods cut into coin shapes.
Read more: The Common Choking Hazards to look out for
- Always seat your baby upright in a highchair during meals
- Supervise all feedings — never leave your baby alone with food
- Ensure all caregivers understand and follow the same baby-led feeding practices
- Consult your pediatrician if you have concerns about readiness, allergies, or feeding difficulties
👉 Not sure which foods are safe to start with? Check out our Baby-Led Feeding Food Guide for age-appropriate ideas.
References
Jenna Helwig (2025) What Is Baby-Led Feeding? Available at: https://www.jennahelwig.com/blog/what-is-baby-led-feeding/
Gerber (2025) 5 Easy Steps for Baby-Led Feeding. Available at: https://www.gerber.com/parenttalk/blf-in-5-easy-steps
Capital Area Pediatrics (2025) Baby-Led Feeding: Potential Benefits and Safety Tips. Available at: https://www.capitalareapediatrics.com/blog/baby-led-feeding-potential-benefits-and-safety-tips
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