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Weaning tips every parent needs | Lucy Upton on weaning, gagging and fussy eating

‘Why won’t my baby eat?!’ – the weaning truth every parent needs to hear.

Starting weaning can feel exciting, overwhelming and… a little terrifying. From gagging fears to food refusal and fussy eating, parents are often left wondering if they’re doing it 'right.'

In this Netmums interview, children’s dietitian and feeding specialist Lucy Upton shares the expert advice every parent needs before starting solids – including the biggest myths around baby-led weaning, allergies and picky eaters.

Lucy explains:

• The real signs your baby is ready for weaning

• The difference between gagging and choking

• How much babies actually eat in the beginning

• Whether purees or baby-led weaning is best

• Why messy eating is GOOD for development

• How to introduce allergenic foods safely

• What parents should NEVER panic about

• Why toddlers suddenly become “fussy eaters”

Lucy also reveals why social media can make weaning anxiety worse – and why comparing your baby’s eating habits to others can pile on unnecessary pressure.

'One of the best things you can do is step back so your baby can step up,' Lucy says.

Whether you’re about to start weaning or deep in the messy middle of it, this conversation is packed with reassuring, evidence-based advice to help you feel more confident at mealtimes.

Watch the full interview now and discover why weaning is a skill babies learn – not something they instantly know how to do.

Netmums caught up with Lucy at @The Baby Show, Birmingham NEC. Netmums is the official podcast partner for 2026, and will be back at the next show at the Olympia, London, from Friday 23 – Sunday 25 October, 2026.

#Weaning #BabyLedWeaning #StartingSolids #FeedingBaby #WeaningTips #ParentingUK #LucyUpton #BabyFeeding #FussyEating #ToddlerFood #NewParents #Netmums #BabyDevelopment #ParentingAdvice #weaningjourney


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