Is your baby reaching that exciting milestone where they’re ready to start exploring solid foods? Or perhaps you’re preparing for the weaning journey ahead, which, according to the NHS, typically begins around six months. As you plan your baby’s introduction to solids, one of the key decisions you’ll make is which weaning approach to take.
Choosing the right approach to weaning is about finding what works best for both you and your baby, making the process smoother and more enjoyable. But is spoon fed weaning the right fit for your family? To help you decide, we spoke with Dr. Rana Conway, a nutritionist and author of Weaning Made Easy (£10.99, White Ladder Press), to explore the ins and outs of this traditional method.
What are the different types of weaning?
The three main methods of weaning are traditional spoon-fed weaning, baby-led weaning, and a combination of the two. Each method has its own benefits and considerations, and the right choice depends on your preferences and your baby’s needs.
Spoon fed weaning
Spoon-fed weaning is the classic, time-tested method where parents or caregivers take the lead in feeding their baby smooth purees and gradually introduce different textures over time. This method allows parents to control portion sizes and ensures that the baby gets a balanced, nutritious meal.
Baby lead weaning
In contrast, baby-led weaning (BLW) encourages babies to self-feed from the start, giving them more independence and helping them develop motor skills.
Combination weaning
A combined approach offers the flexibility of both methods, allowing parents to spoon-feed some meals while also giving the baby the opportunity to explore self-feeding with finger foods.
What is spoon-fed weaning and how does it work?
Spoon-fed weaning typically begins when your baby reaches six months, as the NHS guidelines on the introduction of solid foods states. As the name suggests, it involves parents or caregivers using a spoon to feed little ones, starting with smooth purees and gradually progressing to lumpier textures as the baby becomes more comfortable with eating.
How to do spoon fed weaning
“You usually purée food to make it easier for a baby to handle,” explains nutritionist Dr. Rana Conway. Therefore, common first foods for spoon-fed weaning include; puréed vegetables, fruits, and baby cereals. These offer gentle flavors and smooth textures that are easy for your little one to digest.
This method allows you to control the types and quantities of food your baby consumes, so you can introduce a variety of flavours and nutrients at a manageable pace. It also supports the gradual development of oral motor skills as your baby will learn to move from swallowing purees to handling more textured foods.
Baby led vs spoon fed weaning
Unlike baby-led weaning, where the baby self-feeds, spoon-fed weaning gives parents a more active role in the process. This can be helpful to ensure baby is eating balanced meals or provide reassurance for those who prefer to guide their baby’s food exploration for safety or other reasons. By keeping mealtimes relaxed and responsive to your baby’s hunger and fullness cues, spoon-fed weaning can become an enjoyable experience for both you and your bubba.
Spoon fed weaning schedule
A spoon-fed weaning schedule typically starts with one solid meal a day and gradually increases as your baby becomes more accustomed to eating. Begin by offering a small amount of smooth puree or mashed food, usually after a breast or formula feed, to ensure your baby is not too hungry or too full.
As your baby gets used to spoon-feeding, you can slowly add a second meal, increasing the variety and texture of foods. By around 8-9 months, most babies are ready for three meals a day, and you can continue introducing more complex textures and new foods. Always remember to maintain breast milk or formula as the primary source of nutrition until your baby is one year old.
Top benefits of spoon-fed weaning for babies and parents
Spoon-fed weaning offers several advantages, making it a popular choice for many parents. One notable benefit is that it’s relatively mess-free. Of course, there will still be inevitable smears of food on your baby (thank goodness for bibs), not to mention the high chair and the floor, but having control of the spoon helps to contain the mess compared to self-feeding methods.
This method can also feel more reassuring for anxious parents, as the worrying risk of gagging or choking is reduced when you’re in charge of the feeding process. Knowing you're actively managing the texture and quantity of the food your baby consumes can give you peace of mind and help you to relax while baby is enjoying their meal, making it a positive experience for everyone involved.
Spoon-feeding makes it easier to ensure your baby is getting a balanced diet. For instance, until around nine months of age, babies often lack the dexterity needed to pick up food and transfer it to their mouths, with a lot of food ending up on the floor. By using a spoon to feed them, you can monitor how much food your baby is eating and introduce a variety of foods to support their nutritional needs and taste development.
Overall, spoon-fed weaning provides a structured yet flexible approach that can suit both the baby’s developmental stage and the parent’s comfort level.
What are the disadvantages of spoon feeding? How to overcome them
While spoon-fed weaning has its benefits, there are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind. One challenge is the risk of your baby becoming overly accustomed to smooth purées. If the transition to more textured foods is delayed, your baby may struggle with or dislike lumps later on.
But don't worry, it's easy to avoid this – start introducing mashed foods and soft finger foods, such as long strips of soft cucumber or cooked carrot, within a few weeks of starting weaning. Gradual exposure to different textures helps babies develop their chewing skills and broaden their food preferences.
You might also encounter claims that spoon-fed babies are more likely to become overweight compared to those who are baby-led weaned. However, Dr. Rana Conway reassures parents that “there isn’t enough evidence to support this.” Ensuring your baby has a balanced diet and paying attention to their hunger and fullness cues are far more important factors in promoting healthy eating habits.
Essential tips for successful spoon-fed weaning
To make spoon-fed weaning a smooth and enjoyable process, here are a few practical weaning tips to keep in mind:
Place food in front of your baby – “Your baby is more likely to respond positively if they can see what’s happening,” says Dr. Rana Conway. Allowing your little one to see, smell, and touch the food is just as important as tasting it, as this helps engage their curiosity and senses during mealtimes.
Use a soft, shallow, age-appropriate spoon – “Metal spoons are too hard for a baby’s soft teeth and gums,” adds Dr. Conway. Babies often suck on their spoons, so choosing a gentle, baby-friendly material ensures comfort and safety.
Let your baby get involved – Encourage your baby to grab the spoon if they want to. “Babies are keen to grasp things and to get involved,” says Dr. Conway. “You may find your baby wants to hold a spoon in each hand. The more active your baby’s role during mealtimes, the more they will enjoy food.” Allowing your baby to explore helps foster independence and builds positive associations with eating.
Wait for your baby’s cues – “At first, you may need to touch the spoon gently against your baby's lips,” says Dr. Conway, “but once they knows what to expect, let them decide if they want to eat the food.” Waiting for your baby to open their mouth signals they're ready and keeps the process relaxed and responsive to their needs.
Best first foods for spoon-fed weaning: Nutrient-rich options to try
Choosing the right first foods and best spoon fed weaning recipes is key to making your little one's spoon-fed weaning journey enjoyable and nutritious. Here are some excellent starter options, and they're perfect for vegetarian weaning too:
Puréed Pear: Gentle on your baby’s digestive system, pear is a great introductory fruit. It’s naturally sweet and full of vitamin C, which helps your little one absorb essential iron from other foods.
Baby Cereal or Porridge: Many baby cereals are fortified with iron and other important vitamins, making them an ideal first food. Mixing cereal with breast milk or formula can also create a familiar flavour for your baby.
Puréed Avocado: Packed with healthy fats and vitamin E, avocado supports brain development and is easy to digest. Its creamy texture makes it a favorite for many babies.
Sweet Potato: Puréed sweet potato is rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, supporting eye health and immunity. Its naturally sweet flavor makes it appealing to babies.
Carrot: Cooked and puréed carrot is another great choice, offering a mild, sweet taste and plenty of vitamin A.
As your baby becomes more comfortable with eating, you can gradually introduce new flavours and textures to expand their palate and ensure they receive a wide range of nutrients. Remember to watch for signs of readiness and any possible allergies as you explore different foods.
Top 3 must-have baby products for successful spoon-fed weaning
When it comes to spoon-fed weaning, having the right tools on hand can make a world of difference. These essential items can help streamline the process, ensure your baby’s comfort, and make mealtimes smoother for both of you. Here are the top 3 must-have buys for a successful spoon-fed weaning experience:
1 Silicone-tipped feeding spoons for babies
Soft, shallow, silicone-tipped spoons are a must for spoon-fed weaning. They’re gentle on your baby’s delicate gums and make it easier to scoop and serve smooth purees. Look for spoons designed specifically for weaning, as they’re the perfect size for small mouths and allow precise portioning.
2 Baby food storage containers
Invest in airtight, portion-sized containers to store homemade purees. These are perfect for prepping meals in advance, helping you save time during busy days. Choose BPA-free options that are freezer- and microwave-safe for added convenience.
3 A supportive, adjustable baby high chair
A high chair that provides good back support and an adjustable footrest is crucial for safe and comfortable feeding. While mess control isn’t a primary concern, choosing a chair with a removable tray or cushion can still add convenience. Prioritize ergonomic designs to ensure your baby’s posture supports effective swallowing during mealtimes.
FAQ: Spoon fed weaning
What is the difference between BLW and TW?
The main difference between BLW (Baby-Led Weaning) and TW (Traditional Weaning) lies in how solids are introduced.
In BLW, babies are encouraged to self-feed from the start, offered whole foods in age-appropriate sizes to explore and eat independently. Whereas, TW involves spoon-feeding purees and mashed foods, with parents controlling the feeding process.
BLW promotes autonomy and fine motor skill development, while TW focuses on gradual texture progression and portion control. Both methods aim to support healthy eating habits, but they offer different approaches to the weaning journey.
Is BLW better than spoon feeding?
Whether BLW (Baby led weaning) is better than spoon-feeding depends on individual preferences and parenting styles.
BLW encourages babies to self-feed, fostering independence and helping develop fine motor skills, while spoon-feeding provides more control over portion sizes and ensures babies consume the necessary nutrients.
Some parents prefer BLW for its hands-off approach and its promotion of family mealtimes, while others feel more confident with spoon-feeding to ensure babies get the right amount of food.
Ultimately, both methods can be effective as long as the baby is introduced to a balanced diet.
Why not spoon feed baby?
While spoon-feeding can be an effective way to introduce solids, some parents may choose not to spoon-feed because it can limit a baby’s independence and self-regulation during mealtimes.
Spoon-feeding often places the parent in full control of how much the baby eats, which can hinder the development of self-feeding skills and the ability to recognize hunger cues.
Additionally, some parents prefer baby-led weaning (BLW), which allows babies to explore textures and flavors at their own pace, promoting motor skills and fostering a more positive relationship with food.
However, every family is different, and what works best will depend on individual needs and preferences.
Can I spoon feed my 3 month old?
It is not recommended to spoon-feed a 3-month-old, as babies at this age are still developing the necessary motor skills and coordination to handle solid foods.
At 3 months, most babies are not yet ready for weaning, and the NHS advises introducing solids around 6 months of age. Spoon-feeding before this age could pose a choking risk and may overwhelm your baby’s digestive system.
Instead, focus on breast milk or formula as the primary source of nutrition until your baby shows signs of readiness for solids.
How do I know if my baby is ready for spoon-fed weaning?
Your baby may be ready for spoon-fed weaning when they can sit up with minimal support, have good head and neck control, and show interest in food by reaching for or watching others eat. They should also have lost the tongue-thrust reflex, which is when they push food out of their mouth with their tongue.
Typically, babies are ready for weaning around 6 months of age, but every baby is different. It's important to look for these developmental signs rather than strictly following age milestones to ensure your baby is ready for solid foods.
How do I introduce different textures during spoon-fed weaning?
To introduce different textures during spoon-fed weaning, start with smooth purees and gradually increase the texture as your baby becomes more accustomed to eating.
Begin with finely pureed foods, and as they get comfortable, slowly add small, soft lumps or mashed foods to encourage them to handle more complex textures.
You can also mix in foods with varied consistencies, like mashed vegetables with a little water or formula, to make the transition easier.
Always observe your baby’s cues and ensure they can manage the new textures without gagging or choking.
How can I avoid choking while spoon-feeding my baby?
To avoid choking while spoon-feeding your baby, always ensure the food is the right consistency for their developmental stage, starting with smooth purees and gradually progressing to thicker textures as they become more skilled.
Use a soft, shallow spoon to avoid overloading the mouth, and feed your baby in an upright position to reduce the risk of gagging. Offer small, manageable amounts of food at a time, and never leave your baby unattended while eating. Pay attention to their cues and stop feeding if they seem uncomfortable or show signs of distress.
Can I mix spoon-fed weaning with baby-led weaning?
Yes, you can mix spoon-fed weaning with baby-led weaning (BLW), often referred to as a combined approach. Many parents choose this method to offer their baby the benefits of both. For example, you can spoon-feed smooth purees for certain meals while allowing your baby to explore finger foods and self-feed during other times.
This approach offers flexibility, giving your baby the opportunity to develop self-feeding skills through BLW while also ensuring they receive enough nutrition through spoon-feeding. It’s important to ensure that all foods are age-appropriate and safe for your baby to manage.
How often should I spoon-feed my baby during weaning?
During weaning, it’s recommended to spoon-feed your baby around two to three times a day, starting with one meal and gradually increasing as they become more comfortable with solids. At first, spoon-fed meals should be small and consist mostly of purees or mashed foods.
As your baby gets used to eating solids, you can offer a wider variety of foods and textures, and increase the frequency of meals. It's important to continue offering breast milk or formula as the primary source of nutrition until your baby is around one year old.
Should I use store-bought baby food or homemade purees for spoon-feeding?
Both store-bought baby food and homemade purees can be suitable for spoon-feeding, and the choice depends on your preference and convenience. Store-bought baby food is often convenient, easily portable, and comes in a variety of options with clear labeling on ingredients and nutritional information.
However, homemade purees allow you to control the ingredients, avoid additives, and use fresh, organic produce. If you have the time, homemade purees can offer more variety and customization for your baby’s tastes and nutritional needs. Both options can be safe and nutritious when prepared appropriately.
How do I encourage my baby to eat more with a spoon?
To encourage your baby to eat more with a spoon, make mealtime enjoyable by creating a relaxed, positive environment. Offer small, manageable amounts of food on the spoon and give your baby plenty of time to explore and taste the food. Be patient and avoid forcing them to eat, as this can create negative associations with food.
You can also let your baby play with the spoon or practice bringing it to their mouth themselves. Over time, as your baby’s coordination improves, they’ll become more comfortable with using a spoon independently. Consistency and a calm attitude will help foster a positive feeding experience.
What are common mistakes to avoid when spoon-feeding my baby?
Common mistakes to avoid when spoon-feeding your baby include:
Overloading the spoon - this can overwhelm your baby or cause gagging, and rushing through mealtime. It's important to offer small, manageable portions and give your baby time to chew and swallow before offering more.
Not paying attention to your baby’s cues - if they turn their head or show signs of disinterest, don’t force them to eat.
Feeding while baby is lying down - feeding while they are lying down or in an awkward position can increase the risk of choking.
Introducing foods too early - if the foods are not age-appropriate can cause digestive issues, so be mindful of your baby’s developmental stage.
About the Expert
Dr. Rana Conway is a registered nutritionist with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in child nutrition, offering expert advice on topics such as weaning and healthy eating for babies and toddlers. She is the author of Weaning Made Easy and provides evidence-based, practical guidance to help parents navigate feeding their children. Dr. Conway is a regular contributor to parenting resources, helping families with nutrition-related concerns.
Proud aunt to her teen niece, Zara Mohammed is a Digital Writer for Mother&Baby. She has 10 years freelance writing experience creating lifestyle content for various platforms, including pregnancy, women’s health, parenting, child development and child mental health, plus lots of fun seasonal family articles and celebrity news.