What it is
Baby-led weaning is a way of starting solids where the baby feeds themselves. You offer small, soft portions of whatever the family is eating, and ideally the baby sits at the table with everyone.
The American Academy of Pediatrics says most babies are ready around six months, once they can sit up on their own. Wait longer for babies born early or who struggle to chew and swallow. Gagging is a normal part of learning. Choking is not, so avoid round, coin-shaped slices, cut food into finger shapes soft enough to mash with the gums, and always keep the baby upright and supervised.
How it shows up for me
We’ve been doing a version of it at home. I love it because it puts the baby at the table with the rest of us, which is where cooking is love actually happens.
This is general information, not medical advice. Your pediatrician knows your child.