When advising a parent on feeding techniques for an 18-month-old with developmental delays, which utensil is best recommended?

The recommendation of a narrow shallow coated spoon for an 18-month-old with developmental delays is optimal for several reasons. First, a narrow and shallow design facilitates easier scooping and handling for small fingers, which is important for toddlers who are still developing their fine motor skills. The coating can provide a slightly softer texture for the child, making it more comfortable to use and reducing the risk of injury while learning to feed themselves.

At this age, children are typically practicing self-feeding, and having a utensil that is easy to grasp and manipulate encourages independence and builds confidence. The shallower bowl shape allows for less mess while still providing enough capability to hold a small amount of food, making the feeding experience less frustrating for the child.

In contrast, other utensils like a wide flat plate or a deep bowl may not support the child's developing skills as effectively. For example, a wide flat plate could encourage more food spillage, which might be discouraging. Similarly, a deep bowl might make it harder for the child to see and access the food they are trying to eat, leading to potential frustration. A standard plastic spoon, while functional, might not provide the ideal features that promote successful self-feeding in children with developmental delays.