Guide: How to teach your child to eat with a spoon

Teaching your child to feed themselves with a spoon is an exciting and important milestone in their development. Independent feeding strengthens your child’s motor skills and self-esteem while giving you as a parent some relief.

When do children start eating with a spoon?

Most babies start to show interest in eating by themselves with a spoon between 10 and 14 months of age. Signs of readiness include reaching for the spoon, trying to grasp the food themselves and being curious about what you are doing when you feed them. A customized spoon for babies is an important first step to make the feeding experience easier and more enjoyable.

Choose the right spoon for your baby

When it’s time for your baby to start eating on their own, the choice of spoon is important. A good baby spoon is lightweight, easy to grip and made of safe materials. Choose a baby spoon with an ergonomic handle that makes self-feeding easier and reduces the risk of spills and messes. A soft-edged baby spoon is especially good for babies who are just getting used to solid foods.

Advantages of a spoon with holes

A spoon with a hole is specially designed to promote children’s motor development. The hole allows the child to grip the spoon firmly with the tweezers, strengthening their fine motor skills and independence. Many parents quickly notice that such a spoon helps the child to eat by themselves faster and with greater confidence.

Step-by-step: How to teach your child to eat with a spoon

1. Start simple: Let your child play with an empty spoon first to get familiar with the feeling.
   
2. Introduce food gradually: put some food on the spoon and let the child try to bring it to the mouth himself.
   
3. Encourage independence: give positive feedback when the child succeeds, even if it is messy.
   
4. Handle messes with patience: See messes and spills as a natural part of the process, and make mealtimes fun and relaxed.
   

By actively and patiently supporting your child in self-feeding, you will strengthen their self-confidence and independence.

Common mistakes when spoon-feeding your baby

Many parents make the mistake of holding the spoon too tightly or intervening too quickly in case of a spill. Allowing the child to explore on their own, despite the mess, is important. Also, avoid using spoons that are too big or too heavy, as this can make it difficult and frustrating for the child to eat on their own.

5 Tips for smoother meals with a spoon

1. Use the right spoon: A lightweight and ergonomic children’s spoon makes self-feeding easier.
   
2. Create a calm environment: Make sure that the meal is calm and relaxing.
   
3. Consistency: Start with slightly firmer purees that are easier for the child to handle.
   
4. Be present: support and encourage the child with words and body language.
   
5. Be consistent: Have regular meal times to create routine and security.
   

Executive summary

Teaching children how to eat with a spoon is both exciting and challenging. By choosing the right spoon, being patient and encouraging your child’s attempts, you can set the stage for a positive feeding experience. Want more advice and tips on self-feeding? Explore our range of baby spoons or contact us directly – we’re happy to help!