My First Table Set – Montessori Way

How does Montessori guide children in using tableware? Q: Why use glass cups and ceramic bowls? We offer children real utensils because only through real experiences can they learn how to handle things with care. If something does break, it becomes a valuable learning opportunity — a chance to understand how to handle unexpected situations calmly. In today’s world, we often prioritize speed and safety by using plastic or non-breakable materials. But those materials don’t help children build a real-world connection. The language adults use also plays an important role. Instead of saying, “This will break,” try: “This is a plate — we use it to hold food. Let’s place it down gently and use both hands to carry it.” By using the right tools and words, we help children learn how to interact with the world around them in a meaningful and respectful way. Q: How should we feed a baby when starting solids (weaning)? During the weaning phase, you can gently introduce new flavors beyond milk using a small spoon. In the beginning, babies may not readily accept food from a spoon. You can try placing the spoon gently on their lower lip. This allows them to explore the sensation, open their mouths naturally, and begin practicing how to chew and swallow. To babies, food is a brand-new sensory experience. They may push it out with their tongues — but this doesn’t mean they dislike it! It’s simply part of the learning process. Q: When can my child start feeding themselves? When your baby starts reaching out and grabbing the spoon during feeding time, that’s a great sign they’re ready to start practicing self-feeding! Q: What if my child doesn’t know how to scoop the next bite after finishing one? During utensil practice, adults often offer a spoon already filled with food. After finishing the bite, the child may resist giving the spoon back. Here’s a helpful tip: use two spoons. One spoon is for feeding, and the other stays with the child. When they finish eating and the spoon is empty, say: “The spoon is all done. Here’s another one — let’s swap!” Gently tap the child’s free hand with the new spoon, and they’ll often hand you the used one naturally. Q: I'm worried that forks are too sharp. What should I do? Forks are usually introduced later than spoons — around 7–8 months of age. By 12 months, babies are curious and eager, which sometimes makes them eat quickly or get impatient. So starting fork practice a bit earlier can actually help. If you’re concerned about safety, choose forks with blunt tips. Toddlers don’t use much force, and if they poke too hard, they’ll immediately feel discomfort and pull the fork back on their own. Q: How can I help my child learn to drink from a small cup? When first introducing a small water cup, don’t pour water directly into their mouth. Start by gently touching the cup to their lips and slowly tilting it until they can feel a bit of water. Children may respond in two ways: Stick out their tongue to explore what “water” is Bite the rim of the cup Drinking from an open cup is very different from using a straw. Children need time to learn how to close their mouths at the right moment so water doesn’t spill out. Begin by offering two small sips. Then remove the cup and make eye contact, saying, “Swallow.” Ask, “Would you like more?” If the child shows interest, repeat the steps. This helps them gradually understand and practice the action of swallowing. Q: How should I choose the right type of solid food (weaning food)? There are two main types: BLW (baby-led weaning) and purees. BLW involves offering finger-sized pieces of food (like broccoli or carrot sticks) that allow the child to explore, grab, chew, or suck at their own pace. Purees — like mashed carrots — are made by steaming or boiling and then blending food into a soft texture. Parents can decide which method suits their child best, depending on their needs and developmental readiness.