Best Feeding Accessories for Your 16-Month-Old

For a 16-month-old who is still developing self-feeding skills but shows interest in eating family food, I specifically recommend the ezpz Mini Mat as your best option. This silicone placemat-plate combo is perfect for your situation because it suctions to the table preventing tipping, has divided sections for different foods, and its shallow walls make it easier for your child to practice scooping food while minimizing frustration.

Top Feeding Accessories Recommendations

1. ezpz Mini Mat

Price Range: $19.99-$24.99

Key Features:

• All-in-one silicone placemat and plate that suctions to the table
• Three compartments to separate different foods
• Shallow walls to help with scooping practice
• Dishwasher and microwave safe
• Made from food-grade silicone, free of BPA, PVC, and phthalates

Pros:

• Strong suction prevents tipping and throwing
• Perfect size for toddler portions
• Easy to clean
• Promotes independent eating
• Portable for meals away from home

Cons:

• Suction works best on smooth, clean surfaces
• May not stick to wooden tables as effectively
• Higher price point than basic plates

Best For: Children learning to self-feed who need stability and defined food spaces

2. OXO Tot Training Fork and Spoon Set

Price Range: $9.99-$12.99

Key Features:

• Contoured handles designed for little hands
• Stainless steel heads with food-grade silicone coating
• Non-slip grip even when wet
• Shallow spoon bowl helps with scooping success
• Fork tines designed for safety while still functional

Pros:

• Perfect size and weight for toddlers
• Comfortable grip encourages self-feeding
• Durable and dishwasher safe
• Gentle on gums and developing teeth
• Available in multiple colors

Cons:

• Metal core may be exposed if silicone coating wears down
• Slightly more expensive than basic plastic utensils

Best For: Transitioning from being fed to self-feeding with proper utensils

3. Bumkins Silicone Grip Dish

Price Range: $14.99-$19.99

Key Features:

• Strong suction base keeps dish in place
• High walls to assist with scooping
• Microwave and dishwasher safe
• Made from 100% food-grade silicone
• Available in various colors

Pros:

• Deeper walls than the ezpz mat for messier foods
• Excellent for practicing with spoons
• Durable and long-lasting
• Easy to clean
• Helps contain messes

Cons:

• Single compartment (unlike divided plates)
• Suction may weaken over time
• Bulkier to pack for meals away from home

Best For: Containing messy foods while learning to scoop

4. Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Cup

Price Range: $7.99-$12.99

Key Features:

• Spoutless design that mimics drinking from a regular cup
• 360-degree drinking edge eliminates spills
• Handles for easy gripping
• Valve-free design for easy cleaning
• BPA-free

Pros:

• Dentist-recommended design
• Truly leak-proof when closed
• Helps develop proper drinking skills
• Easy to disassemble and clean
• Durable construction

Cons:

• Multiple parts to clean
• May be challenging for some children to learn initially
• Valve can get moldy if not dried properly

Best For: Transitioning from bottles to regular cups with minimal mess

5. Bapron Baby Full Coverage Bib

Price Range: $14.99-$19.99

Key Features:

• Full coverage design with sleeves
• Waterproof fabric that's soft and comfortable
• Adjustable neck and wrist closures
• Machine washable
• Available in multiple patterns and sizes

Pros:

• Protects clothing completely during self-feeding practice
• Comfortable enough for extended wear
• Easy to clean
• Adjustable to grow with your child
• Folds compactly for travel

Cons:

• More expensive than traditional bibs
• May be warm in hot weather
• Takes longer to put on than simple bibs

Best For: Protecting clothes during messy self-feeding practice sessions

Tips for Encouraging Self-Feeding Skills

Since your 16-month-old is showing interest in your food but struggling with self-feeding, here are some helpful tips:

1. Start with finger foods that are easy to grasp and soft enough to eat without much chewing (small pieces of soft fruits, well-cooked pasta, soft cheese cubes).

2. Model proper eating behaviors by letting your child watch you use utensils during family meals. Most children at this age learn by imitating people around them during meals.

3. Practice hand-over-hand feeding by gently placing your hand over your child's hand while they hold a spoon, guiding them through the motions.

4. Be patient with mess - learning to self-feed is inherently messy but crucial for development.

5. Offer the same foods you're eating but cut into appropriate sizes, since your child shows interest in family food.

6. Create a consistent routine with regular meal and snack times using the same feeding accessories to build familiarity.

7. Praise attempts at self-feeding, even if unsuccessful, to build confidence and motivation.

Comparison Table