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Parentpedia
Using a Fork & Spoon
What Experts Say
It might seem like yesterday when your child finally started solid foods, but now he's showing interest in using a fork and spoon to feed himself. This usually occurs between 15 to 18 months -- sometimes as early as 13 months -- although your child may not exhibit complete dexterity with the utensils until about age 4.
Initially, the idea of your child controlling a fork and spoon may seem daunting (and messy). But, as registered dietician Madeleine Sigman-Grant points out in Healthy Child magazine, "Observation, mimicry, and practice" are key to a toddler's success in mastering the skills necessary ... particularly as muscles and hand-eye coordination develops....
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Don't be afraid of the mess
Your child doesn't yet have full control over his hands so it will be a while before he or she is capable of eating in any neat way. That is okay! The mess is part of the learning process. This time is important to get your child comfortable with spoon and fork so let them experiment. If your child accepts your offer to help put the food on the fork and spoon, hand the fork and spoon back to your child for them to put the food in his mouth by himself and then applaud your child for eating with the utencil.
Tip: Buy utensils made for toddlers
Try to buy forks and spoons made for toddlers. They are easy for them to handle and they are safe. Let them practice using their spoon with thick foods like yogurt or apple sauce. It is easier and they will enjoy the accomplishment. Try soft cheese, meatballs or steamed carrots with the fork. Don?t give him plastic disposable forks. The prongs on those break easily and can scratch your little one or worse - choke them.
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September 16, 2007
A full placesetting
Our daughter is nearly 2 and has been using a spoon and fork for a little while. She prefers to use them because she sees us using them. Sometimes she'll struggle with getting food onto the fork, when she could easily pick it up with her... read more
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