A child is considered a toddler during ages 1 and 3. During the early toddler years, parents are starting to encourage a child to develop fine motor skills with self-feeding. Most children have the motor skills needed to pick up foods by the age of 1, according to KidsHealth.org. However, each child develops at a different age. If you’re concerned, always consult your toddler’s pediatrician.
Pincer Grasp
The next time you pick up food, pay attention to how your thumb and pointer finger come together. This grasp is called the pincer grasp. A child who is ready to pick up foods has developed this fine motor skill. You may notice your child using this grasp when picking up small toys. At first, the grasp might seem a little clumsy. She might drop toys or small objects. However, over time, this fine motor skill should improve and your toddler should start picking up food.
Finger Feeding and Imitation
If you notice your toddler isn’t picking up finger foods, encourage him to follow your lead. Show him how you use your pincer grasp to self-feed. Toddlers often learn by imitation. During this transition, continue to feed him some foods, such as cereal, to ensure he’s getting enough food, while developing his skills.
Picking the Right Foods
Offering toddler-friendly foods can help encourage your child to improve her fine motor skills and finger feed. Offer long-shaped crackers and strips of toast. These foods are easy for your toddler to grasp, allowing her to master this skill. Focus on offering foods she can fit in the size of her palm. You can also allow her to have a toddler spoon. Also, offer applesauce, yogurt and other similar foods to allow opportunities to master self-feed.
Concerns
If your toddler isn’t picking up food or seems to struggle with fine motors skills, talk with his doctor. Some disorders cause a toddler’s brain to develop differently. Struggling with fine motor skills is a sign of this, reports MedlinePlus. Possible disorders that might cause a delay include autism spectrum disorders. Your toddler, however, would have other symptoms, too. Not pointing to objects by 14 months, not responding to his name by 12 months and flapping hands or rocking the body are a few other symptoms of this type of disorder.
