Give your baby their first taste of independence.
Empower your baby to choose what they chew. Mindful and confident caregivers set babies up for lifetimes of healthy decisions, exploration, and positive relationships with nutrition and eating.
A Healthy Foundation
Whether you’re a first-time parent learning new skills or a caregiver looking to become more confident, caring for a baby can make you feel like you bit off more than you can chew.
Foundational healthy habits help little ones understand and regulate their hunger, expand their budding palette, and improve their fine motor skills. Eating is as embedded in a child's development as walking or talking, and is the foundation of every child’s positive relationship with nutrition.
Healthy Habits Start With You
Parents, grandparents, nannies, and other caregivers shape a baby's perception of the world, and much of that begins at the table. Babies express their needs - whether tired, hungry, or content - and it takes a village to listen and respond.
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Caregivers who tune into baby's cues help build their confidence in managing mealtimes, food intake , and developing their taste preferences.
Adventurous Little Eaters
This course contains easy-to-follow modules that take caregivers through every step of the baby-led weaning process, including:
Confidently navigate gagging & Choking.* Build the confidence between normal gagging and actual chocking, ensuring safer mealtime
Safely prepare and serve food. Learn what exactly which foods and how to introduce them safely for your baby's first meals.
Understand your baby's cue to promote intuitive eating.
Introduce allergens with ease under the guidance of your child's pediatrician.
Overcoming challenges and troubleshooting resistance effectively.
Tailored food choices to match your baby's and your family's growing appetite.
Maintaining communication & proper documentation between parents and caregivers to bridge the gap in the baby's food journey
By the end of this course, all caregivers will be onboarded and confident in their ability to set their baby up for success. They will also receive a Certificate of Completion.
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In addition to the course videos, you’ll receive all of Esterlita’s supplemental materials and resources on baby-led weaning, including her simple family recipes created for different age groups, shopping lists, and updates on current BLW practices. You will also be part of her judgement-free community of parents and caregivers.
*While this course provides expert guidance based on my 20 years of childcare experience, it is not a substitute for medical advice. We strongly encourage caregivers and parents to complete CPR courses to ensure safety during mealtime. Please , consult your child's pediatrician or healthcare provider for any specific medical concerns or dietary restrictions related to your child.
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How do I know if my baby is ready for solid foods?Look for signs like an interest in food, sitting up with support, and good head control. It's recommended to start introducing solids around 6 months, at which point most infants have developed the necessary motor skills and digestive capabilities for solid foods. Starting earlier than 4 months may increase the risk of allergies and digestive issues. Remember, every baby progresses at their own pace. Always consult with your pediatrician before beginning a program.
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How often should I add new foods to my baby's diet?Begin with one new food at a time and wait 3-5 days before introducing another. This helps pinpoint any potential allergens or sensitivities. During this period, monitor your baby for any unusual reactions.
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Are frozen fruits and canned vegetables okay for my baby?Absolutely! They retain nutrients and are easy to prepare. Just defrost frozen foods overnight and mix them with yogurt or serve as finger foods for older infants.
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Can I start Baby Led Weaning (BLW) if my baby is already 10 months old?Yes, it's never too late to try BLW! I started with some clients that started at this age as well. Babies' gag reflex tends to decrease as they grow, making it easier to introduce new solids.
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When can I introduce allergenic foods like peanuts or eggs?The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests introducing allergenic foods around 6 months old. Consult with your pediatrician, especially if your baby has eczema or a family history of allergies. Early introduction may reduce the risk of developing allergies.
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What if my baby refuses to eat solid foods?Some babies take time to adjust. Keep offering a variety of foods and let them explore at their own pace. It's normal for them to be curious and cautious. Their main source of calories will still come from formula or breast milk. Whatever they are eating now is just complementary. It's essential to maintain a positive mealtime environment and avoid pressure. Take a gradual approach, trust your parental instincts, and follow your baby's cues. Mealtime should be a positive and enjoyable experience. Make sure to create a safe eating environment, and always supervise your baby during meals.
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When can I start giving water to my baby?Breastmilk and formula milk are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for children aged 0 to 6 months. But when babies first start eating solid food, they may also start drinking around0.5 to 1.0 cups (4 to 8 oz) of liquid each day in a cup.With the introduction of solid foods, start giving water throughout meals. Juices, plain milk, pasteurized milk, flavored milk, plant-based milk, sugary beverages, and caffeinated drinks should not be provided.
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Is it safe for babies to eat solid foods without teeth?Yes, babies can manage soft foods without teeth. Steaming, roasting, or boiling can make foods safer and easier to eat. If you can, mush and squash solids with your fingers to make the solid food easier to eat.
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What are some baby-friendly foods to start with?Start with single-ingredient, mild foods like bananas or roasted sweet potatoes. Soft-boiled/ roasted fruits like apples and pears are great options too. Don’t forget to add a dash of herbs and spices to make the taste more interesting.
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What if my baby chokes on solid foods?It's essential to learn infant CPR and choking first aid before beginning this process, and educate yourself on the difference between gagging and choking. Always supervise meals, serve food to your baby in a safe and controlled way, and practice with your feeding team.
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How can I introduce allergenic foods safely?Consult your pediatrician, especially if your baby has eczema or a family history of allergies. Allergenic foods like peanut butter should be introduced under medical guidance.
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How long does it take to see an allergic reaction in an infant, and what are the signs?Allergic reactions can happen within minutes or take up to a couple of hours after exposure to the allergen. Common signs include hives, swelling of the face or lips, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Call 911 right away.
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How do I make this transition less stressful for me and my baby?Take it one step at a time, be patient, and remember that it's a learning process for you both. Reach out to your pediatrician or a trusted expert for guidance and support. Create your own team and build confidence together. Navigating the world of solid foods can be nerve-wracking, but with patience, knowledge, and the guidance of your pediatrician, you can ensure a smooth and healthy transition for your little one. Enjoy this exciting phase of your baby's development! Remember, it's okay to feel nervous. You're not alone, and there are resources and experts available to support you on this journey. Always consult with your pediatrician for personalized guidance, and trust your instincts as a loving parent.
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Can I share this course with my nanny?Absolutely! Sharing our baby-led weaning course with your nanny is a fantastic idea. It allows both you and your nanny to be on the same page when it comes to introducing solid foods to your little one. Here are some benefits: Consistency: When both you and your nanny understand the principles of baby-led weaning, it helps maintain a consistent feeding approach for your child. Safety: Your nanny will be well-informed about safety guidelines and best practices, ensuring a safe and positive feeding experience. Collaboration: It promotes collaboration between you and your nanny, creating a supportive environment for your child's development.