Are you a baby-led weaning newbie figuring out how to get started? Or a seasoned pro looking to shake up your BLW finger food combos? Whatever your needs, we have the perfect book for you.
We’ve compiled our top picks for the best books to address your concerns about baby-led weaning (BLW). From beginner guides to cookbooks and safety tips, these books are designed to support your BLW journey.
Why Choose BLW?
Baby-led weaning encourages babies to jump straight to age-appropriate, safely prepared finger foods and skip spoon-fed puréed foods. While it may seem exciting to start this method, experts advise proceeding with caution. BLW may not be suitable for all babies, and certain factors should be considered before giving it a try.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies be given finger foods when they can sit up without support and bring their hands or other objects to their mouth. To know more about the signs of readiness, check out our comprehensive BLW guide.
Top List Of Baby-Led Weaning Books and Guides
Below is the list of top baby-led weaning guides.
Best Baby-Led Weaning Beginner’s Books
1. Baby-Led Weaning: The Essential Guide―How to Introduce Solid Foods and Help Your Baby to Grow Up a Happy and Confident Eater’ by Gill Rapley Ph.D. and Tracey Murkett
This book, written by the pioneer of baby-led weaning, Gill Rapley, along with writer and journalist Tracey Murkett, is a definitive guide. It covers the essentials and basic principles of BLW, explaining in detail the benefits of this method with a clear, science-backed tone.
Get your copy.
2. Baby-Led Feeding: A Natural Way to Raise Happy, Independent Eaters’ by Jenna Helwig
For a more laid-back approach, this book by Jenna Helwig, food director at Real Simple, offers beautiful photos, age-appropriate recipes, and a “visual glossary” to help parents cut foods into safe sizes and shapes.
Get your copy.
3. Baby-Led Weaning Made Easy: The Busy Parent’s Guide to Feeding Babies and Toddlers with Delicious Family Meals’ by Simone Ward
Ideal for busy parents, this book by Simone Ward offers practical recipes and time-saving tips. It’s perfect for those who want to embrace BLW without feeling overwhelmed.
Books On Safety & Allergies
4.‘Simple & Safe Baby-Led Weaning: How to Integrate Foods, Master Portion Sizes, and Identify Allergies’ by Malina Malkani MS RDN CDN
- Registered dietitian nutritionist Malina Malkani provides practical advice for creating safe and balanced meals, focusing on safe food preparation and good kitchen habits.
Get your copy.
5. ‘Baby Led Weaning in 5 Easy Steps: A New Parent’s Guide’ by Courtney Bliss
- Pediatric registered dietitian Courtney Bliss sums up BLW in five easy steps. This book is great for new parents looking for a quick and easy read on the basics of BLW.
Books On Whole Food Nutrition
6. ‘The Big Book of Baby Led Weaning: 105 Organic, Healthy Recipes to Introduce Your Baby to Solid Foods’ by Aubrey Phelps MS RDN CLC
- This book by dietitian Aubrey Phelps is filled with organic meal plans, complete sample menus, and money-saving tips. It emphasizes the importance of cue-based feeding and trusting babies to self-regulate.
BLW Cookbooks
7. ‘The Baby-Led Weaning Cookbook: Delicious Recipes that’ll Help Your Baby Learn to Eat Solid Foods―and That the Whole Family Will Enjoy’ by Gill Rapley PhD, Tracey Murkett
- More than just a cookbook, this book offers a comprehensive guide on baby-led weaning along with over 130 recipes for the whole family.
Get your copy.
8. ‘Annabel Karmel’s Baby-Led Weaning Recipe Book: 120 recipes to let your baby take the lead’ by Annabel Karmel
- Annabel Karmel, one of the UK’s top children’s cookery authors, shares creative and appealing recipes that ensure babies get optimum nutrition while developing motor skills.
Get your copy.
9. ‘The Super Easy Baby Led Weaning Cookbook: 55 Simple Recipes to Introduce Your Baby to Solids’ by Tok-Hui Yeap RD CSP LD
- For quick and easy recipes, this book by registered dietitian Tok-Hui Yeap offers no-fuss meals that are packed with nutrition.
Get your copy.
10. ‘BLW Baby Food Cookbook: A Stage-by-Stage Approach to Baby-Led Weaning with Confidence’ by Ellen Gipson MA RDN LD, Laura Morton MS RDN LD
- This book offers 102 recipes arranged according to your baby’s developmental stages, with practical guides and safe food preparation tips.
Conclusion
Choosing the right book can make your baby-led weaning journey easier and more enjoyable. Whether you're looking for beginner guides, cookbooks, or safety tips, there's a book out there to suit your needs. Happy weaning!
FAQs On BLW
1. Is Baby-Led Weaning Evidence-Based And Safe?
Studies have shown that baby-led weaning doesn’t lead to more choking incidents than spoon-feeding baby purées. However, experts advise parents to learn how to prevent and handle choking episodes.
2. Will My Baby Get Enough Nutrients?
Studies show no significant difference in nutrient intake between baby-led and spoon-fed babies.
3. What Are The Benefits Of Baby-Led Weaning?
BLW may prevent babies from becoming picky eaters and can lower the risk of obesity. It also offers a good opportunity to bond during mealtimes with the family.
4. Does The AAP Recommend Baby-Led Weaning?
The AAP recommends that babies start exploring solid foods at six months of age. However, many pediatricians give the go-ahead at four months. Always consult your pediatrician before starting BLW.