Confused about different approaches to weaning

[jdmummy18]

Ds is 5 months so we're starting to think about weaning him. Aibu to be unable to decide which is the best option - baby-led or traditional? Did anyone else find this a really hard decision? And if so, what did you choose and why?

1. Usually whatever I'm having so naan with curry to dip in, or pizza crusts. Usually with a piece of fruit or vegetable sticks. If what I'm having is absolutely unsuitable then usually cereal.

1. I gave him whatever I was having when we ate out. I used a large muslin on the floor beneath his high chair and used babywipes to clean up as required.

1. Gave him a spoon in one hand. He got the idea pretty quickly, mainly by watching us. He'd mimic the action until he got frustrated and used his hand or got something on the spoon.

In terms of lazy days- we do still have takeaways, but you just need to keep basics in (potatoes, eggs) and you will be able to whip up a healthy meal in no time.

We are regular restaurant eaters (at least once a week) and I've never had anyone have a problem with it. I have one of those portable Chicoo high chairs that you can attach to seats, it's been a lifesaver as it comes with a tray and I've found most of her food falls on that and then I can clear it up. All children make a mess when they go on to solids, so I wouldn't stress too much about it.

My daughter is great with a spoon. I have always pre-loaded things like Greek yogurt for her and then given her the spoon. I don't give her cutlery with every meal yet and she eats fine without it. I've not decided when I will introduce cutlery properly, but you asking has made me want to look further in to this.

And I went straight in with 3 meals a day, just a bit of what ever I had.

We're doing the Annabel Karmel book, so mainly purees and now onto things like bits of fish and lumpier stuff. We were given a baby spag bol sachet last week though, nothing that hard to chew however DDs gag reflex went nuts and she threw up (she's 7 months btw). She did eat a baby wafer with no issue, but then on the other hand had a bite of cucumber but just kept it in her mouth. For now it's lumpier purees either made by me, or Ellas kitchen.

Food before one is mainly for fun, iron and zinc levels can start declining from around 6-8 months old so if your baby doesn't eat very much don't worry about it, he'll crack it eventually, but if he doesn't show much interest at all then it might be worth giving some vitamin drops alongside solids.

I had my heart set on blw but my daughter choked (not gagged) and it scared me to bits so I’m just puréeing her food until she’s a bit older. I know it’s meant to be safe but it causes me too much anxiety I don’t think it’s worth it, she’s only 6 1/2 months. She uses the spoon herself which I suppose helps with her skills. Just do whatever is best for your baby, they all get there eventually as long as it’s healthy food.