What is adaptive tableware? This is special line of bowls, plates, dishes, and cupholders which helps children achieve independent mealtimes—fostering better nutrition.

Studies show that the majority of parents purchase some type of adaptive dinnerware for their toddler who is learning how to feed by him or herself.

1. Children need adapted divider plates to keep food separate.

2. “Non-slip” pads for dishes and bowls only impede slipping—they do not prevent it.

3. Freedom Dinnerware boasts a vacuum-base system that holds the dining implements securely to flat, clean surfaces.

4. Adaptive “scoop” bowls for your child are a great way to teach him how to push food onto his fork or spoon.

5. Cup holders must have grabber arms that are easy to open, but which hold the beverage container firmly in place.

6. Cupholders must have a method of adhering to surfaces—children prefer the adaptive cup holders made by Freedom Dinnerware.

7. Adaptive dinnerware must be completely dishwasher safe (note that Freedom Dinnerware is safe, though the bottom base must be removed first).

8. Children give adapted bowls and plates a beating; make certain that the tableware you choose is strong enough to withstand the abuse.

9. Children will be interested in suction-cup adhesion devices and other methods and may want to unfasten them. By contrast, the Freedom vacuum system is barely noticeable and difficult for a child to remove.

10. Adaptive bowls and plates must be easy to remove—just lift the edge of the Freedom vacuum base and it easily comes up.

11. Cupholders often break off. So make certain that the adaptive cupholder you purchase for your child folds down flat.

12. Colors must be neutral. Because you never know which décor they may be used with, the adaptive tableware must be of a color that fits in with all decors.

13. You need to be able to microwave your child’s adapted bowls and dishes. It is estimated that 83% of all meals in the U.S. are prepared in microwaves.

14. This adapted dinnerware must be virtually unbreakable. Freedom’s line is near indestructible.

15. Cup holders must not release the container…until the moment that your child wishes to have the container.

You can help your child learn to feed independently and achieve a higher level of nutrition by providing the right tools. Bowls, plates, and dishes for adults are not necessarily appropriate for children learning to eat. Instead, do your child—and yourself—a favor by providing adaptive plates and dishes for your children that eases them on the journey to independence.