Transitioning your baby to solid foods is an eventful milestone. However, it can be somewhat overwhelming when trying to figure out when the transition should occur and how to go about it.

While children go through their developmental milestones at their own pace, most children start bringing their hands to their mouths and can start eating solid foods as early as four months. Still, many parents wait to start on solid foods until at least six months of age.

When you do start your baby on solid foods, you may wonder how to choose toddler utensils for feeding. It helps to consider the utensils’ design, ease of cleaning and use, age recommendations, and material.

Continue reading for a few things to know before purchasing your toddler’s first feeding utensils along with a great option to consider.

Things to Know

Baby-Led Weening

Before introducing utensils, many parents chose to begin with baby-led weening. With baby-led weaning, you slowly introduce your child to soft finger foods. This allows them to use their hands to bring the food to their mouths and explore textures.

However, introducing age-appropriate utensils to your baby or toddler can help them build their hand-eye coordination as they self-feed. Even if the food does not make it to their mouth, they are still practicing grasping objects and moving them to their mouth.

Consider Your Child’s Age

Always check the manufacturer’s age recommendations before purchasing your baby’s first feeding utensils.

Some utensils are designed specifically for children just beginning on solid feeding, while others are designed for older children who’ve had more practice self-feeding.

Think About the Material

Baby feeding utensils can come in a variety of materials, including silicone, bamboo, stainless steel, and plastic.

Part of your decision will depend on your family’s lifestyle. If you are more eco-conscious, stainless steel or bamboo may be a more eco-conscious choice, while others may choose plastic.

Also, consider how the utensils will withstand repeated drops onto the floor as well as dishwashing and sterilizing. Knowing the product’s specifications will help you keep them in good condition as long as possible.

Furthermore, ensure the material is safe for your child’s tender gums, face, and eyes as an infant may not be coordinated enough to get the spoon or fork into their mouth every time. In this instance, a utensil made of silicone, plastic, or rubber may be the best choice.

Select the Right Size

The utensil of your choosing should be sized just right for your baby’s or toddler’s hands and mouth.

It should fit comfortably and securely in their hands and should be shorter in size than a regular spoon to avoid them poking their throat or choking.

Additionally, the spoon or fork should be lightweight to avoid hindering your child’s coordination.

A Great Choice

Bololo Forks and Spoons are an excellent choice as your child’s first feeding utensils.

Made of BPA-free silicone with rounded, smooth edges, these dishwasher and sterilizer-safe utensils are ideal for self-feeding.

The short handle conforms to your baby’s hands and the safety shield design prevents them from stabbing their throats or choking. Additionally, the shield can serve as a spoon or fork rest, keeping the utensil off the table.

Bololo utensils are a great fit for little hands and safe on their gums, making them an ideal choice as you transition your baby to solid foods.

Final Thoughts
Children develop at their own pace. Although transitioning your child to solid foods can be a little stressful, it can be easier when you consider the utensils’ design, ease of cleaning and use, age recommendations, and material.

Finding a great set of child-safe spoons and forks, such as Bololo’s can provide a sense of relief when looking for the right fit for your child.

Sources
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html