Personally, I didn't let my DD attempt anything until 6 months because this is what I feel comfortable with, she never even tried to before then though which helped. I definitely wouldn't have been offering before 6 months but again, that's me. I don't see the rush but do understand you wanting to let your baby lead, sometimes though you have to be the one in charge due to safety. I think before 6 months there is so many other different textures and learning to be done that the extra stimulation from food isn't needed (and obviously the nutritional aspect isn't required yet either) so would rather wait and be sure. That being said, even so, my DD didn't start swallowing till just before 9 months so in reality, I guess it wouldn't matter too much had I let her lead because they really do seem to know what they are doing! It is hard but for me, waiting just sits better and I think in the end, you just need to do what you are comfortable with.