Dinner plates are essential when it comes to mealtimes and you need to select tableware that is made with children in mind to minimize spills and injuries. There are different materials that are used for kids’ tableware so you need to evaluate their safety before purchasing them. Plastic tableware is very popular but there are some concerns when it comes to exposure to unsafe chemicals such as BPA, melamine, PVC etc.
Melamine can leach into food and high levels of melamine in food can lead to many health concerns such as kidney failure. But you need to understand there is a high threshold for this. Using a plastic cup or plate a few times will not end up with your child in the hospital. It is prolonged exposure that you need to worry about. If you are using BPA products, they should not be microwaved or put in the dishwasher.
This is the same when it comes to melamine plates or any other type of plastic plate. PVC is not safe for use in tableware and it has detrimental effects on the environment as well. When using plastic tableware, you have to make sure that you don’t put hot food in them either. Some of the alternatives that you can consider to plastic are natural wood, silicones, ceramic, stainless steel and glass. These are eco-friendly materials as well.
There is tempered glass tableware that comes with silicone covers that increase slip resistance. But it is best to use this with older children as they will be less prone to throwing or dropping the plate. Check for food grade stainless steel plates that come with lids. This will help you cover the food and store it if the child doesn’t finish the food at mealtime. The benefit of using stainless steel plates is that they will not carry any stains or odors. They can be used in the dishwasher but you will not be able to microwave them.
Silicone is a popular material for kids’ plates. It can be an expensive material so some manufacturers tend to introduce fillers to reduce the retail price. You can check whether the plate has fillers or not by twisting it. If you see white showing through, it indicates the use of filler. If you do this to a plate made entirely of silicone, there will be no such color change. You can also find silicone bowls that are a great option to prevent spills. There are different colors you can find such as blues, greens, pinks and coral bowls.
In addition to plates, you can use silicone placemats or trays so that mealtime messes are easier to clean. Wooden plates can’t be used in the microwave or put into the dishwasher. But they are a great natural alternative. Some wooden plates are combined with silicone for more durability. You will be able to have a consistent range of tableware by sourcing all from one supplier. You can search online for suppliers that specialize in children’s tableware and have a reputation for safety and durability.
It’s no secret that kids are messy eaters. They spill, they drop, they throw their food. And while it may be frustrating at times, it’s also a fact of life when you have little ones. But when it comes to eating, there are ways to make the process a little less messy and a lot more fun for both you and your child. One such way is by investing in some good quality kids plates. Not only will this help with the spills, but it will also give your child a sense of ownership and responsibility when it comes to mealtime. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love seeing their kids eating off of their very own plate? In this guide, we will show you some of the best kids plates on the market and help you choose the perfect one for your little one.
Types of kids plates
There are all sorts of kids plates on the market these days, from those with funny characters on them to more sophisticated designs. But what kind of plate is right for your child?
Here’s a look at some of the different types of kids plates available:
1. Character Plates
Character plates are always a hit with kids. They feature their favorite TV or movie characters, and can make mealtime more fun.
2. Activity Plates
Activity plates have built-in games or activities that kids can do while they eat. They’re a great way to keep little ones entertained at the table.
3. Training Plates
Training plates are designed to help kids transition from using a regular plate to using a adult-sized plate. They usually have suction cups that keep the plate in place, and divided sections that make it easy for kids to scoop food onto their fork or spoon.
4. Plate Sets
Plate sets usually come with a plate, bowl, and cup that all match in design. They’re perfect for when you want everything to coordinate, and make a nice gift for new parents or grandparents.
What to look for when choosing a kids plate
When it comes to choosing a kids plate, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to make sure the plate is made from a safe material. BPA-free plastic or silicone are both great options. You’ll also want to make sure the plate is durable and can withstand being dropped or thrown. And finally, you’ll want to choose aplate that is easy for little hands to grip. Here are a few of our favorite kids plates:
1. The OXO Tot Stick & Stay Suction Plate is made from BPA-free plastic and features suction cups that keep it securely in place.
2. The Munchkin Stay Put Feeding Bowl has a non-slip base and is made from BPA-free plastic.
3. The Nuby Sure Grip Miracle Mat Plate has suction cups that keep it in place, and raised edges help prevent food from spilling off the plate.
4. The Silicone Placemat + Plate set from WeeSprout features a placemat with built-in dividers that suctions to the table, and a matching plate that has raised edges to help contain food.
5. The Squeasy Snacker Reusable Food Pouch is perfect for on-the-go meals and snacks. Simply fill with your child’s favorite food or drink, seal, and go!
The benefits of using a kids plate
When it comes to kids plates, there are many benefits that come along with using one. For starters, kids plates can help portion out food properly for children. This is especially beneficial for those who are picky eaters or have trouble eating large amounts of food at one time. Additionally, kids plates can make mealtime more fun and interactive for both children and parents alike. By using fun and colorful plates, children are more likely to be engaged and excited about their meals. Finally, kids plates can also help teach children about proper nutrition and healthy eating habits from a young age. By exposing them to different types of foods and encouraging them to try new things, kids can learn a lot about the importance of good nutrition.
How to get your kids to eat off of their kids plate
If you’re looking for ways to get your kids to eat off of their kids plate, here are a few tips:
1. Encourage them to try new foods.
Explain to your kids that trying new foods is part of growing up and being adventurous. Remind them that they may not like everything they try, but that it’s worth giving new things a shot.
2. Make it fun.
Encourage your kids to eat off their kids plate by making it fun. Use fun plates and bowls, and let them choose their own utensils. Let them help you prepare meals, and make sure they have a say in what goes on their plate.
3. Be a good role model.
If you want your kids to eat off their kids plate, you need to be a good role model. Eat the foods yourself that you want them to try, and show them how much fun it can be to eat healthy and delicious food.
