Let’s get ready for some serious feeding folks. The solid food phase is a messy phase so some spill control is what we are gunning for. All our toddler-feeding supplies are BPA free so there are no worries in that department. This program demands some new items to make mealtime enjoyable for everyone.

Getting plenty of bibs is the first, and very important step, otherwise you will be doubling up on laundry. You’ll want small ones at first, and eventually larger ones that cover more of the body (especially once they are feeding themselves). When the child is small it is okay to use bibs made of absorbent materials but as they grow the mess is bigger and a waterproof bib is ideal.

Next would be bowls, plates and cutlery. Bowls with lids are a handy option for storage and travelling. Many bowls are available with suction, which will hopefully deter your child from throwing it like a frisbee. If you move to a plate for the older kids you may want to get something which has separate sections to keep food groups apart.

Spoons should always be soft (no metal) as little ones are not always careful and will poke their faces on a regular basis or hit those sore teething gums. Be careful offering them a fork for the same reasons especially at the beginning of the program when it’s a bit wild (and obviously no knives). As they get a little older, give them cutlery that has a chunky or fatter handle – it’s much easier for them to hold.

As far as cups the sippy cup will be in play for quite a while and a small wide based training cup can be introduced at a point where you feel they will not be spilling as much. Sippy cups come with many styles of drinking spouts – there isn’t one that is better than the other. Same as choosing the right bottle nipple, some infants will prefer one over the other. Always make sure to pick a sippy lid that correlates with the age of your child – if the lid pours too quickly, then your little one may choke.

To keep eating areas clean, try using a placemat, and a splash mat under your child’s chair. Mats are easier to wipe off (over the sink or garbage can), and splash mats can be thrown in the wash or shaken outside.

If you’re going to make your own baby food Baby Cubes allow you to freeze multiple portions, and allow you to take one out at a time. These BPA-free containers each have lids, so it’s easy to take out one portion at a time. Tip: most parents will start with at least 3 packs of Baby Cubes – one for fruit, one for veggies and one for meat.