When and how did your child learn to use spoon/fork on their own?

Question

my son is 16mths old, and is only starting to get the grasp of using utensils. he will dip his spoon in (e.g.) apple sauce, but will turn it upside down by the time it reaches his mouth. the same thing with the fork...though he understands spoon much better. He's one of those kids who doesn't accept help easily, but will do as he sees..but still doesn't get the spoon?

Answer 1

Kids, especially younger ones learn more than you'd think from watching their parents. So eating properly in front of him might help him get the concept of using spoons and forks. And don't be frustrated if he doesn't get it right off. It'll take him awhile so practice practice practice!!!

Answer 2

Practice makes perfect.  For a while just give him big objects that would fall off of the spoon when upside down....like grapes or fruit chunks.  Maybe he'll learn better by watching you do that when he cant keep it on the spoon?

Answer 3

I didn't let my child do spoons or forks until shortly after she was 2.  Then I would only let her use a fork for dry foods.  I'd still use the spoon for all wet/messy foods.

Once I noticed she had mastered the fork, I'd let her use the spoon for thick puddings and mashed potatoes.  As she got closer to 2 1/2 I let her use the spoon and fork for everything else.  She still has problems with soup and she's 3

Answer 4

Your son is about the right age, just hand him the spoon sit back and watch.  Best to get a drop cloth so it is easier to clean the floor when done because trust me, the food will fly lol.  My son is 18 months (just turned) and I gave him a spoon at 14 months (seemed interested at this age) and he can now eat pudding etc with hardly any trouble.  He still sticks his whole hand in the bowl once and awhile but I just laugh and remind him to use the spoon.  He can also use a fork fairly well now.  Good luck and just allow him to try, he will get it with time :)