When Can A Child Feed Himself?

In the lunch party on the occasion of Mother’s Day, I heard a group of young mothers discussing on the ways to encourage their young children to feed themselves. Various views emerged in the course of their discussion.

Important points regarding when a child can feed himself:

1) It is found that a newborn is totally dependent on his/her mother or caregiver and he/she cries to be fed when hungry. A child at this stage has a strong sucking reflex and would sucks vigorously at the mother’s breast or bottle to satisfy his/her hunger. It is only after a few months; probably even a year that they baby learns to feed himself/ herself.  

2) Most kids have learnt to drink from a cup held by an adult when he is about 6 months old, with one being able to hold the cup by himself/ herself at the age of 8 months. It is found that most children recognize a cup and a spoon and start playing with it at the age of 10 months. It is around the same period that he/she is able to pick up finger foods like rusk, bread and soft fruit by using his/her thumb and forefinger.

3) Most children are able to use a cup for drinking and a spoon for feeding themselves only after 12months or a year; your child may spill food trying to feed oneself by turning over the spoon. Parents need not worry or make a fuss as the baby will soon learn to feed himself/ herself by a trial and error method. It makes sense to spread a plastic sheet belong the high chair to manage the mess.  You will soon find that the baby is able to use the spoon well and also starts enjoying a variety of flavors and textures; it would be best to cut and give the same meals that the other family members eat.

4) A child at 3 years would have developed independence and learnt how to use the fork and spoon with both his hands skillfully. You can give small helpings to your child at this stage; however make sure to not fill the plate fully as the child will be overwhelmed. It is best to introduce new foods, however do not worry if the child does not complete it all. Most children have a good appetite and would eat the food on his/her plate; however if a child is forced to eat any food, it is quite possible that he/she will reject it.

5) Last, but most important every child will start eating a variety of foods soon and start on the road to a healthy lifestyle; consult your doctor if the child does not reach its milestones.  

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