"Do Myself" Stage and Messy Affair!

Ikram is 1 year and 9 months. He is being more independent by the second. He speaks more words too. He thinks that he's big enough to do everything on his own. But he didn't think he would make a big mess out of it. A big mess for Mama to clean. The food ended up more on the floor and on his lap than into his mouth. He is still learning to target and making big catch. Whatever the outcome, just let them experience.

He has already learn how to drink from wide cups and bottles (not straws or lidded sippy) with minimal spills. Chaiyok! 

 
He can't see any of us eat at the dining table. He will surely join the meal.

He won't let go of the spoon or fork. And he won't let us help him. Look at his warning look.

What are you feeding yourself?

Toddler's Development.

I have read somewhere (Baby's book and Ask Dr. Sears) that it's good to let your toddler feed by himself. It's one of the development milestone. Let him experience his senses. See, smell, touch and taste.

Toddlers between age 12 to 24 months can start use a spoon but proficiency may take a while (Baby Centre Malaysia).

Parent's Part of the Development. 

Patience. Yup! I am patient for the time being by mopping and sweeping bits of food from the floor, chair, table, cloth, etc. Tips: Obviously, we won't be giving them our favorite tableware. Let them have unbreakable dishes and cups. Cover the floor with sheets of old newspapers or any other sheets underneath the baby chair so that it is easily picked up and thrown away. BUT I will definitely not bring him to any restaurant in this near future. Not until he's fully trained. Unless they would only eat finger food. It is easier to let them feed on pasta, spaghetti or macaroni where they could poke with a plastic fork. Drinks. Please give them plain water or else we'll have to mop the whole room as it would be such a sticky situation.