EMR or child-led diversification: instructions for use

The dietary diversification led by the child guarantees a good awakening of the taste buds and a gain in autonomy. Appeared in the United Kingdom, it is less known and used in France. 

What is DME, Child-Led Diversification, or BLW in English?

Christine Zalejski– “Child-led diversification (DME) does away with the mash-compote step to directly offer solid foods – soft, melting, multiform – for babies, from 6 months. The EMR stimulates the independence of toddlers and helps them discover their bodies. This movement, which appeared in the United Kingdom in the 2000s, was initiated by Gill Rapley, a nurse who has published books on the subject. In Anglo-Saxon countries, it is called the BLW, for Baby Lead Weaning. Widespread in North America, it is just beginning to hatch in Europe.

What are the benefits of EMR for the child?

C.Z– By trying to catch his own food, the baby develops fine motor skills. Eye-hand-mouth coordination takes place earlier… The variety of foods on offer allows young children to awaken to colors, tastes and textures. He learns to self-regulate his appetite while eating enough and to master chewing and swallowing fairly quickly. Some studies also point to the benefits of EMR in the possible reduction of obesity. Another advantage: it would promote the development of self-esteem.

With solid pieces, is there a risk of suffocation?

C-Z- According to surveys conducted in the United States, DME does not cause an increased risk of choking. Indeed, it involves the GAG reflex : a natural reflex which aims to send back towards the entrance of the mouth any excessively bulky food which would have penetrated too deeply into it. These are then chewed again and then swallowed by the baby. As it grows, this reflex shifts to the back of the mouth and helps it to naturally develop its chewing abilities and swallowing. Over time, toddlers learn to chew with their gums and crush food against their palate without difficulty.

Can the child have any deficiencies with EMR?

C-Z- EMR can start at 6 months, when milk is still the child’s staple food. During the first two months, it is the discovery phase. The milk then covers his needs. Like chewing and coordination require more time to set up than with classic diversification, the child will eat significantly less in terms of quantity. But the supply of fibers and nutrients from raw, unprocessed plants, which are offered to it, makes it possible to compensate for this slight difference.

DME / BLW: in what form to introduce the solid pieces?

C-Z- Vegetable sticks are popular! You can cut carrot or parsnip fries and steam them for 5 minutes at first. As you grow up, you will be able to offer your little one yogurt sauces to encourage them to improve their motor skills. Around 11 months, serve him a dahl of red lentils or diced vegetables with meatballs: chicken, red meat or fish; a choice !

What is the BLW? 

BLW, or Baby Led Weaning, is the equivalent Anglo-Saxon term for DME, or Child-Led Diversification. 

What attitude to adopt to succeed in the DME, or BLW?

C-Z- Listen to your baby and let go of the quantities. At the beginning, your little one, in full discovery phase, will take time to feed. Stay patient and do not hesitate to be accompanied by a health professional in case of blockage. The EMR can participate in the development of your child’s autonomy, and therefore in his long-term development. “

Christine Zalejski is founder of the website and workshops ‘Cubes et Petits pois’ (www.cubesetpetitspois.fr), consultant and trainer in infant nutrition. Find out more: ‘Baby eats by himself‘, (ed. Larousse).

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In video: What is the DME?

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