How to Teach Toddlers to Eat With a Fork

Allowing her to practice often with a small plastic fork will help her master the skill.

Mealtime with a toddler conjures images of spaghetti sauce from head to toe, oatmeal smeared on the wall and utensils flung happily to the floor. A time of exploration and enjoyment for the child undoubtedly causes feelings of frustration and helplessness in parents. Teaching a toddler to eat with a fork requires patience, a positive attitude and a willingness to guide him as he discovers the wide world of table etiquette. Introduce safe, plastic forks some time after your child's first birthday, when he has already had experience with spoons.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic toddler fork

Instructions

1. Prepare and serve foods that are easy to pick up with a fork. Choices include rice, ground meat, small chunks of fruit or cooked vegetables. Toddler-sized plastic forks are not usually sharp enough to "stab" chunks of food. She will begin by using the fork exactly as she would use a spoon, but as she gains experience you can introduce a small, metal fork for meat and other dense foods.

2. Place a small bowl of food in front of her and allow her to try feeding herself. Give her time to explore. If she becomes frustrated, help by putting a piece of food on the fork and allowing her to bring it to her mouth.

3. Practice patience. Give him ample time to finish his bowl and do not expect a mess-free high chair tray.

4. Continue giving her the opportunity to practice with a fork at every meal. She will gain dexterity and speed with each meal and will be eating like a pro in no time.

References

• Baby Center: When Can My Baby Use Utensils?
• Parenting; Teaching Toddlers Table Skills; Megan Francis; 2010