What is the International Baby Led Weaning Network About?

Meet the founder, Jessica Coll

A pioneer in baby-led weaning (BLW), Jessica was one of the first registered dietitians to offer BLW workshops in the world. She created the International Starting Solids Network, a platform dedicated to supporting health professionals. Through comprehensive resources and training, Jessica helps these professionals confidently and empathetically guide families.  Her expertise and dedication have earned her international recognition, including invitations to speak at international conferences on BLW.  Jessica strongly believes that the introduction of food should be tailored to the unique realities of each family: their culture, dynamics, and existing eating habits. She advocates for an approach that prioritizes the parent-child connection, trust, and respect for the baby’s natural abilities, rather than focusing on the quantity of food consumed.

Passionate about her role as a mentor, Jessica draws inspiration from her personal journey as a mother. It is this experience that has shaped her vision of pediatric nutrition and reinforced her commitment to a respectful and individualized approach. Her goal is to help each family navigate this important stage with confidence, while respecting their values and unique needs.

As an affiliate member of McGill University, she inspires the next generation of dietitians-nutritionists by teaching students a course on BLW.

Jessica values an accessible, flexible, and personalized approach while recognizing the importance of referring to the right experts when necessary. Her goal is to share her knowledge through training, conferences, and collaborations to provide strong, respectful support for families.

Professional Presentations

  • A Nuanced Training for Health Professionals About Baby Led Weaning

    In partnership with the Quebec Professional Association of Registered Dietitians (ONDQ) - 2025

  • Baby Led Weaning: Evidence and Controversy Around the World

    International Congress of Nutrition and Dietetics - Toronto, ON 2024

  • Guest Lecturer about Baby Led Weaning for Nutrition Through Life Course

    McGill University - Montreal, QC 2024

  • Baby Led Weaning: What WIC Staff Need to Know

    Texas WIC (Women Infants and Children) Breastfeeding and Nutrition Education Conference - Austin, TX 2023

  • Baby Led Weaning: Evidence and Controversy

    Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo (FNCE) - Washington DC, 2018