Baby Led Weaning Ideas for Every Meal

Fun, baby led weaning-friendly options for every meal

November 16, 2021

Full Coverage Bib by Bibbrella

B
aby led weaning (BLW) is a unique journey that’s about more than choosing solids over purees. So, what makes baby led weaning meals different? BLW empowers babies to take charge of their weaning experience. Parents can facilitate this process by providing meals that aren’t only tasty but also make it easy for your little one to select food that has a variety of flavors and textures. This encourages kiddos to develop their motor skills and practice decision making skills all in the short span of a meal! 

Breakfast

Toast sticks: Toast sticks can be served with scrambled eggs and cheese slices for a savory morning meal or with fruit and maple syrup for a sweet start to the day. Offering different taste and texture options at breakfast is a great way to set the tone for mealtimes throughout the day.

Pancake rounds with fruit and yogurt “dip”: A classic breakfast treat gets a fun twist when yogurt is used as a healthy dip. Instead of adding unhealthy sugars, use fresh fruit as a garnish to sweeten the deal.

Mini latkes and applesauce: Latkes and applesauce are a natural pairing that’s perfect for the colder months of the year. Check out our post here for some more holiday-inspired meals that will warm up any winter day! 

Lunch

Quesadilla squares and salsa: Cut a quesadilla with fillings of your (child’s) choice into squares and serve with a side or two of different salsas or guac. You might even have your little one help you decide what goes into the quesadilla before throwing it into the pan! 

Sweet potato fries and slider patties: While a traditional burger might be a bit much for our little ones, smaller slider patties, a side of sweet potato fries, and a savory dip are a baby-friendly alternative that still lets kid enjoy this classic flavor combo.

Veggie sticks, pita “chips”, and dip: Veggies and dip are a tried and true option that’s healthy and easy for babies to manage. Consider offering a variety of dips such as dressing, hummus, and peanut butter along with an array of veggie options and cut pita triangles to provide options. Plus, it’s a good idea to get your child used to the idea of veggies while they’re developing taste preferences that’ll follow them the rest of their life. 

Dinner

Hearty pasta, marinara, and bread: Use a sturdy noodle like penne or rotini that’s easily handled by small hands. Cut spaghetti is a common option, but dipping a thicker noodle or buttery bread slices in marinara is a fun way of changing up this traditional dish!

Roast chicken shreds and roasted potatoes: A perk of this dinner dish is that it’s adult-friendly and doesn’t require separate prep. Shred or cut large strips of chicken and serve with cooled, roasted potatoes for a filling meal that’s also easy for little mitts to grab.

DIY tacos with salsa and guacamole: For older children, a DIY taco scenario can be a fun and exciting way to try a variety of flavor combos. A mini taco bar is a great way for kids with more advanced motor skills to feel a sense of ownership over mealtimes. It’s also an ideal approach to fussy eating that maximizes options and minimizes adult interference. Who doesn’t love a good taco with hand-selected fillings? 

Ready for a fun meal with your kiddo? Grab a full-coverage baby bib from Bibbrella to make sure your baby’s clothes are protected from messes and spills as you embark on the baby led weaning journey with your little one!