Advice and strategies

When introducing cutlery:

• expect messy eating when starting out. Practice feeding just before bath time and when time is not so pressured
• consider the size and shape of cutlery. Try using child size cutlery or cutlery with chunky handles for children who have a loose or weak grip
• make sure the bowl or plate is not slipping by using either a non-slip mat or a damp cloth underneath
• consider the child’s sitting posture at the table; the chair should allow them to be high enough to adequately access the cutlery and their plate, and these should be placed on a table – see Good seating advice sheet
• make sure the table is a good height for the child so that they can prop their elbows at 90 degrees on the table
• try to eat with your child when you can so they have the opportunity to copy you.