Developing Feeding Solutions (1-5 Years)

Developing Feeding Solutions (1-5 Years)

Understanding Feeding Solutions (1-5 Years)

  • A child’s dietary needs change as they grow and it’s important to adapt feeding solutions accordingly. The equipment used and the types of food served should be appropriate for the child’s age, size, and developmental stage. Feeding solutions for this age group include high chairs, booster seats, child-safe cutlery, sippy cups, and appropriate meal and snack selections.

High Chairs

  • High chairs provide a secure, elevated seating area for feeding. They are suitable for children beginning from around 6 months old when the child can sit up unaided.
  • Look out for high chairs with a strong, stable base to prevent tipping over, a safety buckle, and a crotch post to prevent slipping down.
  • They should be easily cleaned, be fully adjustable, and adhere to British safety standards.

Booster Seats

  • Booster seats are designed to lift the child up to table height. They are useful for toddlers and older children who are too big for high chairs, but too small to sit unaided at a table.
  • Safety features to look out for include safety straps, non-slip seats and strong, sturdy frames.
  • Some booster seats have adjustable heights and removable trays for ease of use.

Child-Safe Cutlery

  • Child-safe cutlery is designed to be easy for small hands to hold and use, and to reduce the risk of injury.
  • Cutlery for younger toddlers should have rounded edges, while preschool-age children can begin to use cutlery similar to adult versions, but smaller and lighter.
  • Cutlery should be made from a material that is easy to clean and doesn’t break easily.

Sippy Cups

  • Sippy cups help to transition babies from bottles to normal cups, reducing the chance of spills.
  • Look for cups with easy-to-grip handles and a slow flow to avoid choking.
  • Sippy cups should also be free from BPS, BPA and phthalate for health and safety reasons.

Meal and Snack Selection

  • Children of this age group should be fed a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins, grains, and diary.
  • Meals should be appropriately portioned and nutritious. Avoid foods that can be choking hazards like grapes, whole nuts, and hard candies.
  • Include plenty of hydration in children’s diet, water and milk being the best options.

Considerations When Choosing Feeding Equipment

  • All feeding equipment should meet British safety standards.
  • They should not include any small parts that could be choking risks or sharp edges that could cause injury.
  • Regularly check for wear and tear that could make the equipment unsafe.
  • Always consider the size, durability, and ease of cleaning when choosing feeding equipment.
  • Never compromise on safety or comfort for cost-effectiveness.