Hollye- The prob with MCHN's is that alot of their advice is actually based on their personal opinion and experience ratehr than current research. Yes, babies used to only have pureed food, but as the article shows new research shows that there are many advantages to BLS. We started BLS at 5.5months and DD has done really well.

Like someone else mentioned, if there is an allergy issure, you can still offer just one finger food at a time. There is no difference between a carrot that is whole and one that is mashed.

Sounds like your fill in MCHN is a bit 'old fashioned" Might be worth seeing another one (if there is one). It is nice to get support for your choices rather than funny looks and dissaproving tones.