The child must have separate dishes. How not to make a mistake when buying dishes for the first feeding of a baby? Basic selection rules. What materials and shapes are preferred

27.09.2019

"All you need to know about baby food"

Your baby is growing up, and now it's time to introduce the first complementary foods. Parents often have the question, “what dishes to choose for feeding the crumbs?” and “what is the best way to cook food for a baby?”. Today, children's goods stores offer a very wide range of spoons, cups, plates and accessories for cooking and feeding. But are they all safe, comfortable for you, and will your child like them? Let's take a closer look at the intricacies of choosing and using children's dishes.

Requirements for children's utensils.

Whatever type of feeding your baby has - breastfeeding or formula feeding, after six months, the baby will need complementary foods. The body of the crumbs is significantly different from the body of an adult, therefore, the choice of dishes for him is a responsible matter. The baby's dishes must meet certain requirements:

– be safe above all, without releasing any toxic substances in contact with both cold and hot food,

Be made of non-toxic materials, preferably non-breakable,

Be convenient to use, have a small size, comfortable handles,

Wash well and thoroughly after use, withstand sterilization, boiling,

have a long service life,

Like a child.

To make the transition to the adult table easy and convenient, it is recommended to purchase a special set of dishes for the baby, which will make feeding useful, easy and fun.

What will be needed?

Before going to the store, you need to make a rough list of what your child may need for the first complementary foods and subsequently. Some may already be in your use, and some will need to be purchased additionally.

So, you need two plates- deep and shallow like a saucer, mug, drinking bowl, especially if the baby has previously eaten a mixture from a bottle, which will make it easier to get used to drinking from a cup. You will need 2-3 small spoons for eating and one larger one for stirring food during cooking. To wash vegetables before cooking, you need a small brush, the same brush can be useful for washing narrow dishes that your hand cannot fit into. For rubbing vegetables and fruits, you need a plastic or glass grater (metal is not suitable, it destroys vitamins) and a plastic fine strainer. Cutting vegetables and fruits requires a stainless steel knife. When cooking, you must use measuring cups - plastic or glass.

In addition, you will need pots, one with a capacity of about half a liter for preparing vegetable purees and cereals, a 2-5 liter saucepan for boiling children's dishes and heating food. A large container with a lid for storing clean dishes and one smaller one for appliances will be very useful.

Pleasant additions to the cooking and feeding process will be: a thermos to keep food warm if the baby is sleeping or you need to go for a walk, a baby food warmer if you decide to use canned food, a blender for making mashed potatoes and soups, a coffee grinder for grinding cereals for cooking porridge.

A bib becomes a very convenient thing in the process of feeding - there are reusable washable and plastic, washable bibs, and there are disposable bibs that are convenient for visiting guests.

What is the best way to cook?

In order for the food for the baby to retain the maximum of useful properties and vitamins, it must be prepared correctly, using dishes specially allocated for this. Pots or small ladles are commonly used, as well as deep bowls or microwavable cups.

Stainless steel pots are usually recommended for preparing food for a child, in which food is cooked quickly, does not deteriorate for a long time and cools slowly, microorganisms multiply insignificantly on the walls of such pans. In addition, this tableware retains its marketable appearance for a long time, it is light, durable, easy to clean with any detergent, and is not subject to corrosion.Especially handy are small pans with a glass lid and a valve to let the air out.

Cast iron cookware is still relevant, although it is now rare to find it on sale. In fact, it is this cookware, along with stainless steel, that is the safest. And the food cooked in it is the most useful for the child. Due to the very thick walls, the heat in such dishes is distributed evenly, retained by the walls of the pan for a long time, and the dishes turn out tasty and retain the maximum of their useful properties. If the baby needs to cook a dish that requires long stewing or long heat treatment, cast iron cookware is ideal for this.

Dishes made of a special alloy, the so-called medical steel, are considered very popular, this is a special mixture of 18% chromium and 10% nickel with iron, a very corrosion-resistant alloy with excellent heat-conducting properties, easy to clean, resistant to not only conventional detergents, but even acids and alkalis. This cookware is harmless, it is durable, lightweight, and will last a long time. Its significant disadvantage is only the cost - sets of such dishes are quite expensive compared to ordinary stainless dishes.

Enamelware can be used to cook baby food, but it has several drawbacks. The utensils must be with smooth, undamaged enamel, cracks and chips of enamel are unacceptable - such utensils are unsuitable for use. The fact is that enamel protects food from getting into it particles of heavy metals of the alloy from which the pan was made. In addition, the enamel particles themselves on the chips can get into the child's food. The second significant drawback of such dishes is their unsuitability for preparing dairy dishes - milk in such dishes burns to the walls and quickly runs away. The undoubted advantages of enameled pots are their ease of operation, ease of washing and pleasant appearance, as well as the cost - they are inexpensive.

Previously, aluminum pans were widely used in our kitchens, they are light, warm up well and keep heat for a long time. But, for cooking a child today, aluminum utensils are prohibited. When cooking food, acidic or alkaline components that are contained in food destroy the upper oxide film on the surface of the pan, due to which the metal passes into food. In addition, during the aging of aluminum pans, harmful substances, aluminates, are formed in them, which accumulate in the human body. Pots made of various aluminum alloys that have protective coatings that prevent food from coming into contact with metals are acceptable for cooking.

Today, dishes with a Teflon, non-stick coating are gaining more and more popularity. It is undoubtedly convenient - everything cooks quickly in it, does not burn, and is suitable for preparing various dishes. Such dishes are easy to wash, but they are safe only if they are used carefully - scratches, chips should not be allowed on the surface, since if the integrity of the coating is violated, toxic substances begin to be released from it. Therefore, for safe cooking in such dishes, special devices are needed - wooden or plastic spoons, spatulas or ladles with or without coating.

Microwave ovens are now widespread. Do not use metal utensils for cooking. Here, ceramics and glass will become indispensable helpers. They are very comfortable, conduct heat well, keep food hot for a long time and wash well with conventional means, food does not burn in them. The disadvantages of glass and ceramics are their fragility, they can break or crack from a sudden change in temperature, although modern models are made of special heat-resistant thick glass, which minimizes the risk. For cooking porridge or vegetables in the microwave, glass saucepans with lids or ceramic deep bowls are convenient.

Dinner is served…

For a healthy diet, it is important not only in what and how to prepare food for the child, but also in what to feed him, so that the food brings only benefits, and the feeding process gives the baby pleasure. The most important thing in children's dishes is the material from which they are made. It must be absolutely safe. Consider the main advantages and disadvantages of materials for children's dishes.

The most popular material in children's dishes -it's plastic , it is considered the safest for children under three to four years of age. But, the utensils must be made of high-quality polymer plastics, which are specially designed for food products. The main polymers are:

Polycarbonate has the Latin designation "OTHER" or "O" on the packaging or the product itself.

Polystyrene has a Latin designationPS,

Polypropylene has the Latin designation "PP".

All other designations PETE - polyethylene, PVC or PVC - polyvinylchloride are considered potentially hazardous and should not be used in the food industry, especially in the production of children's tableware.

However, it is necessary to carefully study the labeling, not all types of plastic children's utensils are intended for hot foods and use, for example, in a microwave oven. Heat-resistant cookware should have a special mark or an indication of the marking "PP", polypropylene, it allows high temperatures. It is unacceptable to use dishes made of PS polystyrene for hot products; when heated, styrene, a toxic substance dangerous for children, is released from it. It is permissible to pour drinks and put cold foods into such dishes.

The dishes do not always have Latin markings, then numbers can be used - polystyrene is indicated by the number 6, and polypropylene by the number 5. In addition, food plastic is usually marked in the form of a fork with a cup or glass.

Separately, it should be noted dishes containing melamine, this is a special component that is used in the production of plastics. In Europe, such dishes are banned, according to scientists, this type of plastic can emit a high content of formaldehyde. But in Russia there is no official ban on the production and sale of such dishes yet, there should only be an indication on the label that the dishes are not intended for hot foods and long-term storage of foods. In addition, some dyes that are unsafe for the child may be used in its production. Therefore, it is impossible to feed children from such dishes.

In general, plastic utensils are convenient and practical - they are easy to clean, do not break, harmful microorganisms do not accumulate and multiply on them. Very often, manufacturers use a special thermoplastic in children's dishes that changes color at different temperatures, which is very convenient. However, there are also disadvantages. Usually this is a short service life, from 2 to 5 years. In addition, in a plastic plate, unless it is a special thermoplastic, the food cools down quickly enough, which can be a significant drawback when mastering eating skills when the baby is still eating very slowly.

Then it can become convenient for feeding the babyceramic tableware , it keeps food warm for a long time, it is easy to handle, it is easy to clean, it does not allow germs to multiply, and it is an environmentally friendly product. Modern ceramics can be used in microwave ovens, and even in the oven. In addition, it is made quite durable. However, it can still break, and if cracks or chips appear on it, it will not be possible to use it. Approximately the same set of advantages and disadvantages has a thick-walled, heat-resistant transparent and opaqueglassware .

Very often, especially the older generation, gives kidswooden utensils , beautifully painted with Khokhloma or other patterns. However, contrary to popular belief about environmental friendliness and the most suitable material, wood is not the best type of dish for feeding a baby. Due to the presence of natural microscopic holes in the structure, wooden utensils are able to retain food debris and many microorganisms, and it is extremely difficult to wash them thoroughly. In addition, wood, even varnished, is a fairly soft material and can be damaged when teeth appear in the crumbs, then particles of wood, varnish and paint can get into the child's mouth.

Quite convenient ismetal and enamel utensils . This is a fairly practical material, the merits of which we talked about earlier, it will not break or break, it is convenient to take it with you on a visit or on the road. But she has a significant drawback - a mug or plate, if a very hot liquid is poured into it, heats up quickly, and the child can get burned.

How to choose the right dishes?

All children's tableware sold in Russia must have a special sanitary-hygienic and epidemiological conclusion and a certificate of conformity. All copies of these papers must be certified by the Department of State Sanitary and Epidemiological Supervision and have holograms. This document must be presented to you at your request for the entire range of products sold. If this requirement cannot be met, it is better to refuse such a purchase.

All instructions and composition of dishes must be indicated on the label or on the dishes themselves in Russian. And for plastic dishes there should also beinternational marking in Latin letters. Dishes for a child must have a sealed package, preferably transparent, so that you can see its color and texture. If the plate or mug has a too bright, saturated and unnatural color, you should think about whether the baby needs this. In addition, sniff at the product you are buying - the sharp chemical smell of the packaging or the dishes themselves should immediately alert you - it is better not to buy such dishes.

What does the baby need?

Let's start with the choice of plates - you will need at least two plates, a flat one for grasping food (pieces of fruit or boiled vegetables) and a deep one for soups and mashed potatoes. When choosing a plate, you need to pay attention to its size, shape and stability. The volume of the plate must be chosen so that it contains such a volume of food that the baby can master at a time, this forms the habit of eating everything to the end. Usually children's plates are produced in bright colors, with pictures of animals or heroes on the sides and bottom, which allows you to turn the process of eating into an interesting activity. It is better to have a few plates in stock and change them from time to time so that the baby does not get bored. Along with the usual round plates, there are unusually shaped plates, up to square ones, with various fixtures.

For the first feedings, a plate with a suction cup that is attached to the table, or a handle for which you can hold it, is suitable. They will not let the plate turn over. To keep food warm for a long time, there are heated plates, inside of which there is a reservoir where hot water is poured to keep food warm. There are plates with a color indicator. When food cools, they change color, signaling to mom about the start time of the meal. There are plates with sectors that allow the baby to eat different types of food without mixing them together. Some plates have raised edges that turn inward, making it less likely to spill soup or puree if a child rocks the table.

A convenient addition will be a lid to the plate, in case the baby has not finished eating or does not want to eat yet. This will allow you not to shift the food in order to place it in the refrigerator for several hours.

Now let's talk about drinking. A convenient transition from sucking a nipple is a drinker, a device in the form of a mug with a lid on it with a spout having a hole or several for liquid flow. There are many varieties of drinkers - with screw caps, interchangeable nozzles, valves and tubes. To switch to drinking from a mug, it is usually enough to remove the lid. And the drinker turns into a small mug. Drinkers usually have removable or non-removable handles that allow the child to hold it in their hands. Drinkers are quite comfortable, easy to clean, withstand boiling or treatment with boiling water, made of unbreakable materials.

For older kids, you will need a mug for drinks. It is made like a cup with one or two handles, which often have rubber pads that slip less in the hands.The mug usually has bright patterns, and the bottom is often made of rubber or silicone, which prevents the mug from sliding on the table. The first circles should have a small volume, then the baby will spill less on himself if he drops it.

My spoon and fork.

To eat complementary foods and adult food, cutlery is needed - a spoon and a fork a little later. Since ancient times, there has been a tradition to give a silver spoon “for the first tooth”. This metal has a number of positive properties - it disinfects the oral cavity and, with proper care, has a very long service life. However, if the silver has darkened or there is a film on its surface, you cannot feed the baby with such a spoon. In addition, the edges of the spoon can be hard for the baby.

Another option is a stainless steel spoon and fork, and for convenience it sometimes has a curved handle, and the fork comes with rounded teeth. Many manufacturers produce combined devices - metal spoons and forks with a plastic or rubber coating that do not injure the delicate gums of the crumbs.

Very convenient and practical are plastic or silicone devices. They are hygienic, light, very easy to care for, can be boiled and thoroughly washed. With such a spoon or fork, the baby can try to eat on his own, and the mother will not be afraid that he will hurt the gums.

Choose a spoon and fork that is small enough to fit easily in your baby's mouth. If it is a silver spoon, choose a tea or coffee one. If you are feeding your baby yourself, the handle of the spoon should be long enough. If the baby eats by himself, the handle should be thick enough, non-slip and short, and the scoop of the spoon is bent towards the face for his convenience.

Wash and store properly.

In order for the baby's food to be tasty, safe and healthy, the dishes must be washed and stored properly. Until about 6-8 months, it is recommended to sterilize the baby's dishes. Later, it is enough to rinse it thoroughly and pour boiling water over it. To wash children's dishes, you need to use special detergents, conventional products are not recommended - they are poorly rinsed out of dishes. It is necessary to have a separate sponge and cloth for children's dishes and store them separately from everything. Once a day, they must be disinfected by dousing with boiling water or putting in a microwave at full power in a container of water for 2-3 minutes.

The dishes are washed immediately after eating, after thoroughly cleaning it from food debris. After washing with detergent, the dishes should be thoroughly rinsed under running water, then allowed to drain on a clean towel or wiped thoroughly. Towels for baby dishes should be stored separately and not used for other purposes. You need to store dishes separately from adult dishes, preferably in a hermetically sealed container or covering it with a clean towel.

Comfortable and high-quality tableware for the baby will become a reliable assistant in mastering new tastes, developing independent eating and chewing skills. And funny drawings and funny accessories for children's dishes will make breakfast, lunch or dinner crumbs a useful and enjoyable experience.

Utensils for breastfeeding

The birth of a little person is always a great joy for the whole family. The kid immediately becomes the main one, he is surrounded by care and attention. Modern young parents, as a rule, are well prepared in matters of child nutrition. Even before the birth of the baby, the expectant mother is interested in his diet, reads the necessary literature and is interested in her friends who have already become parents. It is important to know not only what to feed the baby, but also what dishes to use.

What dishes to feed the baby

As soon as you begin to introduce complementary foods into the baby's diet, you will need dishes. A spoon and a plate should not only be beautiful and practical, but most importantly, made of pure material. Buy dishes only in large stores and from well-known manufacturers. It must be strong and unbreakable. Whether it will be ceramics or plastic, each mother decides for herself. Very soon the baby will grow up and he will need different devices. Immediately buy several plates of different depths and diameters.

The baby also needs to prepare food in individual dishes. It is needed for making mashed potatoes, cereals, compotes. Pans can be enameled, steel or non-stick.

The choice of a baby spoon should also be considered. It should be comfortable and practical. Parents should understand that only the baby should use the spoon. Often mothers use silver spoons. The properties of this metal have long been known. An alternative could be plastic or regular dessert.

From what dishes to drink the baby

The first thing you need to purchase is a feeding bottle. This is especially necessary for children who are fed with adapted mixtures. For a breastfed baby, a bottle is also necessary.

Save on this important item for the baby is not worth it. When buying, ask to see a certificate of product quality. Glass products are completely safe for the newborn. They withstand high temperatures during sterilization and can be washed in the dishwasher. They also have disadvantages. They weigh more than plastic ones, cost more and can be broken. At the same time, they are more durable.

Plastic bottles have proven themselves well, as they will not break and are made of their environmentally friendly material. Immediately you will need about six pieces, with a capacity of one hundred twenty-five to two hundred and fifty milliliters. This amount is needed in case of unforeseen situations. In addition, the baby will soon drink juices and other drinks, so bottles will come in handy.

When your baby grows up and learns to drink on his own, get a drinking mug. Suitable for 6 month old babies. It should be light, so that the child can easily hold it in his hands. If you are traveling with a baby, then you will need a thermal cup that keeps the required temperature for a long time.

How to choose dishes for babies

You need to buy baby dishes in specialized stores, with experienced sales assistants. When buying, you need to especially pay attention to the tips for the care and sterilization of dishes. It should be borne in mind that some products cannot be treated with boiling water, and this is extremely important for the prevention of infections.

Feeding bottles should be wide-mouthed so that formula can be easily diluted. It should be marked with a detailed scale not in ounces, but in milliliters. It is necessary to have an anti-vacuum effect in order to avoid the occurrence of colic in the baby. Choose a latex or silicone nipple and an anatomical shape.

All dishes for the child should be only from environmentally friendly and proven materials. When choosing a mug, give preference to models with a rubberized stand. It will not move even on slippery surfaces. You can choose a set of dishes on suction cups. The bottom of the plates should be wide so that when you press the edge, it does not tip over. There are models that keep warm for slow babies who are used to eating for a long time. To develop your baby's tactile skills, you can buy a non-spill mug with an intricate shape and color. If the child likes dishes, then he will eat with pleasure.

In order for the baby not to experience pain using a spoon, you can buy special models with a silicone scoop. It will not harm the baby's gums and teething teeth.

Material for dishes for babies

Currently, pharmacies and children's stores have a large and varied selection of children's dishes. Most are made of plastic. An environmentally friendly and high-quality polymer should not enter into a chemical reaction with products and form toxins. It can be safely used for hot and cold dishes. It should be lightweight and impact resistant. Most products are dishwasher and microwave safe.

Baby dish care

Proper care of children's dishes is very important for maintaining the health of the baby. Its immune system is not yet sufficiently developed, therefore it is extremely susceptible to diseases caused by pollution and bacteria.

Before using the bottle, rinse it with hot water. After feeding, use the brush and brush to clean the nipple. Each part must be washed separately. This is very important, as a lot of bacteria accumulate between the nipple and the ring. You need to wash children's dishes with special non-toxic products that do not leave soap residue. After washing, the dishes should dry well.

If it says dishwasher safe, use that. Children's goods stores sell special baskets for washing nipples and rings.

Recent medical research has proven that washing a bottle with hot water and soap is an effective way to clean. However, sterilization is necessary before first use or if you use well or well water. Now you can buy an electric or steam sterilizer. The dishes in them are treated with steam at a temperature of one hundred degrees, which kills all bacteria. Sterilization time, depending on the model, is from four to ten minutes. You can also sterilize in a saucepan with boiling water. This will take three minutes.

The need to purchase dishes for the baby arises at the moment when he is gradually transferred from breast or bottle feeding to normal nutrition. As a rule, this happens by 6-7 months of a child's life: he already knows how to sit and is quite ready to learn how to use his first plates and spoons in his life.

Of course, you can feed your baby from ordinary plates. But feeding a baby from breakable dishes is impractical - the baby loves to study such properties of objects as strength, and the easiest way is to throw the object properly. In addition, it is unhygienic to use adult dishes for feeding a child - each family member should still have their own set of dishes. For young children, special dishes are required - after all, they are just learning how to use cutlery and can injure themselves, wielding, for example, a sharp fork or breaking a saucer. Children's dishes also perform a pedagogical function: with its help, it is easier to teach the crumbs to eat on their own, because it is so interesting to get to the bottom of the plate and see a cheerful fairy-tale hero there!

What will be needed first?

For the baby, first of all, buy a deep plate for liquid dishes, a cup with a handle for drinks and a spoon. Ideally, a set of children's dishes is bought, which includes all the necessary appliances at once. A child is usually taught to use a fork after he has become quite comfortable with a spoon. And such cutlery as a knife is not supposed to be for a baby up to a year at all. It is not necessary yet to give him even a plastic analogue in his hands.

Drinkers can be used as transitional dishes after 5-6 months, helping the baby to gradually switch from a bottle to a cup.

What are the plates?

In addition to the classic type of plates, plates with two or three sections have been created especially for babies. It is convenient to put different dishes in them - they do not mix with each other. In addition, children get the opportunity to eat what they like.

Babies eat slowly, so food can get cold on the plate. To prevent this from happening, plates have been developed that can maintain a given temperature of food - with a double or heated bottom, plates equipped with a sealed container into which hot water is poured to heat food. Chameleon plates and spoons can change color depending on the temperature of the food. For children, this is both entertainment and an incentive to eat faster, until the color has changed.

So that the baby does not drop the dishes from the table, some manufacturers supply the plate with a suction cup. For the same purpose, the plates are equipped with a rubber bottom or a ring that is attached to the base and prevents the plate from sliding on the table surface. In some cases, such a plate is more convenient and easier to use.

What materials and shapes are preferred?

The main thing to pay attention to when choosing dishes for a baby is the material from which it is made, the safety of its use and shape.

Glass is an environmentally friendly material. However, it breaks easily and may injure a child.

Porcelain tableware is beautiful and heat resistant. Quality chinaware is safe but fragile. Poor-quality porcelain may contain melamine, a formaldehyde substance that, when ingested, causes stomach and nervous system disorders.

The most common now utensils made of special food plastic. Such dishes have a lot of advantages: they are light and durable, do not break. Plastic dishes are hygienic - they are easy to clean and do not have pores where germs and dirt can linger. Minus - in plastic dishes, food cools quickly.

When choosing a plate, pay attention to its shape. Deep plates with high walls or in the form of a trefoil are preferable - they are more stable and it is easier for the child to eat from them on their own, without dropping food on the table.

Plates can be of different sizes. The size you need is determined not only by age, but also by the appetite of the baby - for some you need larger plates, for others smaller ones. The main thing is that the plate should fit exactly as much food as the child can eat. This is how the habit is formed to eat everything that is put.

A spoon for a small child should have a soft bucket so that the baby does not injure the gums. The fork must be with rounded, blunt teeth. The cutlery handle should be non-slip - ideally with pimples or rubberized inserts.

In the area of special attention:

- children's dishes must be provided with a quality certificate;

- the packaging must be intact, neatly executed, all inscriptions and seals must be readable;

- good dishes for children are not afraid of washing in the dishwasher and heating in the microwave;

- the dishes should be bright, interesting, with pictures on the bottom, in order to make the child want to eat on their own.

Notable Manufacturers

Philips Avent

Philips AVENT cookware has been developed in collaboration with renowned child psychologists and nutritionists, based on years of research into the taste and nutritional habits of young children. The line of dishes covers the entire period of learning to eat independently - it helps to form the correct eating habits in a child easily and naturally during the game. Especially for this, the dishes were decorated with bright fairy-tale characters, some of which are painted on the bottom of the plate.

The set of dishes includes plates and cutlery, the shape and size of which are intended for children from 6 to 18 months. For babies 6 months and older, small plates and baby spoons are suitable to help transition from breastfeeding to soft chewable foods. For children from one year old - a large bowl and a children's plate with partitions for separate placement of dishes, children's fork and spoon, which are easy to hold in your hand. They will help you move from soft, chewy foods to chunky foods. And for one and a half year old children - a fork, a deep spoon and a training knife with a rounded edge.

All plates have a non-slip rubber base and are dishwasher safe and microwave safe.

Bebe comfort

Interesting models from Bebe Confort are special spoons for feeding a baby: a “mother's spoon” with a long handle, which makes it easier for a child to feed, and a spoon that changes color depending on the temperature of the food.

Another suggestion is the "I'm already big" plate - it has a non-slip base, a removable side that helps you scoop up food on your own, and a hermetically sealed lid. This plate is great for travel. Plates-containers are made of transparent material and have interchangeable pictures.

Some models of this well-known American company have a very original solution. So a plate with special handles is convenient for mom - it can be held in any hand. NUBY spoons and forks are equipped with anti-slip, contrasting color inserts. Interesting series "Fly away! Dishes": a plate from this series is suitable for storing any kind of food, and a tight lid prevents the contents from leaking.

Maman. The set of dishes from the leading Russian manufacturer includes cutlery intended for children of the first year. Two types of kits have been developed: the first stage - for children from 6 months old, and the second stage - for children from one year old. The fork and spoon are rounded and absolutely safe to use, their handles fit perfectly in a child's palm.

A manufacturer from Italy produces high-quality plastic children's tableware sets for children from 6 months. The set includes a bowl with special handles, a plate and a spoon. The bottom of the plates is non-slip. An interesting offer from CHICCO - plates with a heated bottom. Chicco plastic dishes can be washed in the dishwasher.

Hygiene products and household items should be strictly individual, especially when it comes to younger family members. A competent pediatrician will say that you need not just a personal small spoon made of cupronickel or copper, but a device specially designed for the child.

Such a first-of-a-life dish is ideal for feeding a baby: it is convenient, safe, and adapted to the needs of children. Saucers, forks, cups, drinking cups depicting animals, fairy-tale and cartoon characters will help make the feeding process playful.

“Eat porridge, and Mickey Mouse will appear at the bottom,” many mothers say, wanting to feed the baby, and this technique works. According to child psychologists, individual household items contribute to personal development and the formation of self-confidence. What dishes to buy for feeding, which set will meet all the requirements, which company is best: Avent or Pigeon? This is not a complete list of questions that new parents ask.

silicone spoon

In the first months of life, one cannot do without this item of kitchen utensils. But it is not used for its intended purpose. Feeding with milk porridges and rich broths with the help of a spoon is carried out at a more conscious age. Little spoons are needed for ingestion of liquid dosage forms, drinking.

If you give a baby water using a bottle, then in the future the baby will have difficulty sucking on the mother's breast (the syndrome of "tangled nipples"). Cutlery for feeding, even made of precious metals, such as silver, is not suitable in size for a small child's mouth. There is a high probability of causing injury to the oral mucosa with the sharp edges of the spoon.

Plate

At the age of six months, the children's service begins to replenish with new items. The menu of a grown baby ceases to be reduced to breast milk and milk mixtures. There are more food options every day. At such a tender age, the body is saturated with miniature portions. Gradually, the volume of dishes increases. For older children, a deep bowl and a flat dish are required in order to comply with the main rule of a full meal: first, second and compote.

Plastic

It is better to buy a plastic product for feeding. Plastic is considered an unsafe material that releases harmful substances when heated. But high-quality raw materials used in the manufacture of children's products meet all safety requirements. It is worth giving preference to well-known brands, for example, Philips Avent or Pigeon. The production of goods of these firms is strictly controlled and is not complete without scientific research and laboratory tests. The decision to buy their products will not be wrong.

Ceramics, metal

Porcelain, glass, ceramics are fragile materials that are not suitable for placement on a children's table. An awkward kid who has not learned to control his body will beat the plates with enviable constancy. Shards from broken dishes are a danger to all family members.

And how many times can a child get burned due to the high thermal conductivity of metal bowls? It is allowed to pour steaming soups into food plastic, and the edges of the plate will remain cold.

First plate stability

If you do not want to arrange a general cleaning after each meal, then pay attention to the stability of the dishes. Plates with a regular bottom, as well as those equipped with suction cups, are not suitable. The former are too mobile, while the latter are tightly attached to the table surface. The child will definitely try to move away the hated vegetable stew or cottage cheese casserole. But it is unlikely that it will be possible to correctly calculate the force, the efforts made will result in the contents being on the floor.

The best option is to buy a product with a rubberized bottom. The dish will not slip off the table, but it will not stick as if glued. A properly selected plate will delight the little gourmet. The child with great pleasure will enter the society of clean plates to the delight of loving mothers and compassionate grandmothers.

Fork

It occupies a leading position in the list of kitchen edged weapons, but only if we are talking about a metal trident used by adults. Children's forks are not much more dangerous than spoons. The ability to pick up pieces of food with forks indicates that the skill of eating has been mastered to perfection. Buy a fork is offered to older children.

Fine motor skills of the hands are also developing;
The feeding process is facilitated thanks to the ergonomic handle;
The special bend of the product prevents it from slipping out of the inept children's palm.

Non-spill cup

An overview of the most popular vitamin supplements for children from Garden of Life

How can Earth Mama products help new parents with their baby care?

Dong quai (Dong Quai) - an amazing plant that helps keep the female body young

Vitamin complexes, probiotics, omega-3 from the company Garden of Life, designed specifically for pregnant women

A non-spill cup will help speed up the development of the drinking skill. Such dishes are indispensable during walks. Difficult-to-remove stains from cherry juice or tea no longer threaten clothes and things. The main advantage is that the contents are reliably protected from spilling.

Manufacturers produce a huge number of models: with and without lids, with hard spouts and rubberized ones, and even with double walls that keep the drink warm. Each drinking mug is designed for its own purposes, so you should buy at least a couple of options.

Cup

Boys and girls who have grown up and become stronger no longer need drinkers that are safe in all respects. At a conscious age, cups appear on the table for feeding. One of the stages of growing up is considered passed if the child is invited to drink from a mug, and he copes with the task without problems.

But the movements of the baby are not yet so perfected that he can hold the cup and at the same time not become the culprit of emergencies in the kitchen. It is better to buy a cup with two holders. At the same time, the mug should not be heavy and bulky.

Requirements for children's utensils

The choice of bowls, saucers, glasses, cutlery is striking in its diversity. The appearance of the product is a matter of taste preferences. It does not matter what the set of dishes looks like, the main thing is that it meets the following requirements.

Safe materials

A worthy replacement for high-quality food-grade plastic has not yet been invented. Before buying, check for a special mark informing that the product is not afraid of high temperatures. A cheap fake can be recognized by its characteristic smell. If the aroma that the set exudes is comparable in sensations to the emissions of a chemical industry, then this is a reason to refuse the purchase. In 90% of cases, in front of you is an underground copy made in China.

Reliable seller

A set of utensils for feeding should be purchased at pharmacies or specialized stores. Before you buy, you need to ask about quality certificates. This will protect against buying Chinese counterfeit products. Philips Avent and Pigeon are reliable manufacturers that have gained credibility in the children's goods market.

No marriage

A small chip or crack violates the integrity of the product. A damaged topcoat does not prevent harmful substances from entering the food. If the fragment is in the esophagus, then mechanical injuries cannot be avoided.

Design

Flowers, polka dots and drawings are applied even to ordinary enamel pots. Toddlers have a weakness for colorful pictures. A similar design of products favorably distinguishes children's dishes from mom's and dad's dinner sets. Children are opponents of platitudes, they will like the original set. The most important thing is that the image does not wash off after the first contact with the dishwasher.

Simplicity of design

Ease of use and simplicity of design are among the most important purchase criteria. Some drinker variants are equipped with numerous parts, which makes the washing process difficult. It is difficult for mothers to extract pollution from hard-to-reach places. It is necessary to pay attention to the most simple models.

Care of kitchen products for children

Without proper care, dishes pose a potential threat to the child's body, which does not have protective functions. Feeding from an unclean plate can result in food poisoning. Compliance with the following recommendations will protect the baby from health problems:

Aggressive detergents leave a hard-to-wash film. You need to buy a special gel for dishes or use ordinary baking soda, which does an excellent job with ingrained plaque;
The child is the sole owner of his bowls and spoons. Moms and dads should not eat from the baby’s dishes, since there are a lot of pathogenic bacteria in the oral cavity of an adult, to which the child’s body is vulnerable;
Dry the dishes either naturally or with disposable paper towels;
Periodically disinfect a set of dishes with boiling water;
A children's set of dishes should be stored separately from common ladles, kettles and pans. If it is not possible to single out a personal locker, then it is enough to buy a separate towel and wrap plates and cups in it.

The best manufacturing companies

Dutch Philips Avent

Avent kits are developed under the supervision of leading nutritionists and specialists in the field of child psychology;
Each Avent set features an original design;
The unusual design of dishes will interest the baby, turning the feeding process into an unforgettable pleasure;
The size and shape of Avent cookware are designed according to the physiological needs of children;
The plates are equipped with wide edges, and the non-slip base of all items in the set will protect against tipping and pouring;
Avent cutlery is suitable for a miniature palm, the matte finish prevents it from slipping;
Avent sets are dishwasher safe;
Avent publishes brochures with recipes developed with the participation of nutritionists;
Pediatricians prefer Avent.

Japanese Pigeon

Pigeon Corporation has been pleasing consumers with its quality for decades. The main vector of Pigeon's activities is aimed at the production of newborn care products. Pigeon also specializes in the production of products for expectant mothers. Ecological purity of materials, high culture of production, thoughtfulness of details made Pigeon one of the most popular companies.

Pigeon's scientific developments have made it possible to create peristaltic silicone nipples that allow you to feed babies. With Pigeon products, the transition from breastfeeding to self-feeding will be smooth and gradual. Dishes are allowed to be heated in the microwave.

German NUK

The company specializes in products for newborns, providing optimal support at every stage of growth and development. The company produces pacifiers that are similar in shape to the mother's breast, which are ideal for the tiny size of the baby's mouth. Moms are positive about self-feeding education products. Each set is made by the Germans using exclusively high-quality materials that are safe for the fragile child's body.

Does the child need their own utensils? Of course you do! Own dishes for the baby to ensure hygiene, which will positively affect the health of the baby. It is important to choose the right items, but also carefully care for them. In this article, we will figure out what should be included in the first sets of dishes, and how to properly care for the products.

The very first dish for a baby is a bottle. Although many pediatricians do not recommend that breastfeeding mothers use bottles for complementary or complementary foods if they want to keep breastfeeding. The fact is that the baby quickly gets used to the easy obtaining of food and often in the future. Therefore, experts recommend using a spoon, syringe or cup for supplementary feeding or complementary foods.

And now let's look at what items are needed for the baby, and what should be included in the first sets of dishes.

What will the baby need

A spoon may come in handy even before 5-6 months. With the help of a spoon, the baby is given medicines, dill water or herbal decoctions that will help the newborn with severe colic. Spoons are necessary when introducing complementary foods and complementary foods. The question arises which is better to choose the first spoon. Take silicone products, as it does not injure the delicate mucous membrane of the child's mouth and rarely causes allergies;
A drinking cup is useful for an older baby. Take plastic products with two handles or without handles, then it is easier for the child to hold the cup. In addition, there are special drinkers for babies with a spout. If the baby is still unable to drink from a cup, use a sippy cup;
A plate is needed with the introduction of complementary foods. Choose a small, but deep, first plate. Then the contents will not fall on the table, on the floor or on the baby. It recommends choosing a product made of plastic, although this is not the most environmentally friendly material. However, a plastic plate is much more convenient and practical, because glass and porcelain are too fragile, and the metal is very hot.
Today, there are special plates with a rubberized bottom that do not slip on the table and do not fall. It is better to choose a product with suction cups, since the baby will have to make a lot of effort to move the plate, he will not be able to knock it over. In addition, you can choose a plate with several sections, where several types of food will lie at the same time;
Your own cutlery (fork and spoon) is necessary for the baby from the introduction of complementary foods. Items are also better to choose from plastic, while the fork must necessarily be with rounded teeth.

What material to choose

Plastic is considered non-environmental, but high-quality food-grade plastic is suitable for food and will not cause harm. It is important that plastic utensils have a mark that they are suitable for hot food. After all, when heated, plastic releases dangerous toxins. Food-grade plastic has a long service life and light weight, it does not break and will not be able to injure the baby. Plastic sets of dishes are easy to wash, but food cools quickly in such containers.

Bamboo tableware will be a great solution for the baby. It is environmentally friendly, has antimicrobial properties, is lightweight, which will be comfortable for the baby to hold, durable, does not break, easy and simple to clean.

Glass and porcelain are safe and visually attractive materials. However, such dishes are very fragile and break easily, so they are suitable for older children. For babies up to a year old, you can take devices made of safety glass, but they are more expensive and heavier than plastic ones.

Metal products are also distinguished by heavy weight, in addition, they get very hot and cool for a long time, which can lead to burns on the delicate skin of the baby. Do not choose aluminum and wooden utensils for your child. Aluminum emits hazardous substances during aging, and dirt and harmful microbes accumulate in wood.

Today among plastic products there are many fakes. They are unevenly colored and have a dull color. To buy high-quality plastic dishes, purchase products in specialized stores and children's departments. There you can always check the quality certificate.

Buy your baby a silver spoon. This is a very high quality durable and safe material. In addition, a spoon can be dipped into a cup of water, and silver will cleanse the liquid of microbes and other harmful elements.

How to choose the right baby food

Choose only safe utensils for your baby. Items must not be chipped, cracked or otherwise damaged;
Choose dishes with smooth and even edges without notches; take forks with rounded edges;
Colored and bright sets of dishes with various pictures will interest and captivate the baby. Choose items only with high-quality paint that does not peel off, even if the dishes are washed regularly and thoroughly;
The lighter the product design, the better. Dishes should be easy to wash and use;
Take dishes that can be washed in the dishwasher and heated in the microwave. It is desirable that plates and containers keep food warm for a long time;
Choose proven and reliable brands. Choose companies that make high-quality and bright sets of dishes for young children. These are Avent, Nabi, Nuk and others. Which is better, we learn from the table.

Which brand of children's dishes to choose

Brand	Characteristic	Care and use	The cost of a set of dishes
Philips AVENT (Avent)	A popular brand that has collected positive reviews from parents and pediatricians. Distinguished by the high quality of the product, bright design and colorful drawings, plates with wide edges and a rubberized bottom that prevents tipping, comfortable spoon and fork		2000 - 2500 rubles (5 items: 3 plates, a fork and a spoon)
Bebe Confort (Baby comfort)	Dishes made of durable and safe plastic, containers with special inserts for records, positive reviews have collected convenient plastic spoons for the first stages of feeding	Containers can be frozen, dishwasher safe and microwaveable	1600 rubles (5 items: 3 containers of different sizes and 2 spoons)
NUBY (Nabis)	Positive feedback was received by heat-sensitive spoons and plates with non-slip bottoms, bright colors of objects, made of stable safe plastic, dishes keep the dish warm for a long time	Dishwasher safe and microwaveable	340 rubles (4 thermal spoons); 650 rubles (a plate with 2 sections and a lid)
Maman	Aesthetic porcelain dishes, original design and author's drawings of fairy tale characters, a comfortable mug with two handles will allow the baby to drink easily and use the cup in everyday life	Dishwasher safe and microwaveable	800-1000 rubles (3 items: deep and standard plate, mug)
CHICCO	High-quality tableware made of hypoallergenic and eco-friendly materials. The kits are designed for babies who are learning and have already learned how to eat on their own. Soft silicone spoons will not hurt the delicate gums of the baby, have positive feedback from parents. The cup is modified with the age of the child, has removable handles and a lid	Dishwasher safe and microwaveable	400 rubles (spoon); 600 rubles (cup)
Nuk (Nuk)	Bright colored sets made of high-quality plastic, cutlery sets made of soft dense silicone with a long and non-slip handle, comfortable drinking cups with two handles, a soft spout and a nozzle received good reviews	Dishwasher safe and microwaveable	470 rubles (2 spoons); 600 rubles (drinking cup)