Eco tableware for kids
Children need extra durable tableware. Things that won’t break as much. So the ideal sustainable dining sets will be made from sturdy materials.
Yes, classic stainless steel cutlery will be very durable. It also could be too big for little kids. I suggest a mix. A child might feel comfortable with a teaspoon instead of a large tablespoon. There could also be a time and a place for bamboo cutlery when travelling. If something would accidentally go missing, I hope bamboo would be more biodegradable. I would like to learn more about that.
But there’s more than the safer versions of knives, forks and spoons. I definitely prefer sturdy bowls and plates that are made from sustainable materials. A young child, in particular, might find more success with something other than ceramics.
Coconut bowl
Whether you’re making smoothie bowls or serving up smaller portions of meals, coconut bowls can be perfect for the whole family. They hold enough food but are not giant. It’s relatively durable compared to traditional bowls. These very natural pieces are planet-friendly.
Bamboo suction dishes for babies
There is a whole range of bamboo bowls and plates that have silicone suction underneath to keep steady and prevent spills. I didn’t use suction plates or bowls when my child was younger. However, they appear to be popular. If you’re thinking of using spill-resistant tableware, you can choose the eco versions.
Stainless steel plates, bowls and children’s cutlery
You could find stainless steel bowls and plates from ranges of children’s products or camping supplies. There should be some on the second hand sites like Facebook Marketplace, Amazon and Gumtree. If you can’t find any, you could try new plates and bowls from online. You would likely get years of use from these metal supplies. There’s also a sectioned plate for kids who like separate ingredients in their meals.
Avoid the plastic kiddy cutlery. Don’t buy it new. Skip it entirely if possible. I was lucky to have a smaller fork and knife left from an old picnic set. Those are better for my child instead of full-sized cutlery. If you are struggling to find something like that, go for some new little utensils. I can imagine they could get passed down through generations.
Kids can switch to silicone straws and other sustainable versions when enjoying their drinks. Image: iStock/Getty, filtered.
Bamboo and silicone straws
When a child is ready to use straws, bamboo and silicone are better solutions than plastic. We all know how plastic straws are damaging the environment. I often use a stainless steel straw for myself. But the other materials are more soft and that could be better for children.
Durable reusable cups
Children don’t have to use cups that are specifically designed for their age group. If it fulfils the needs anyway, it’s good. Coffee cups are a good choice. Of course, don’t put coffee in the cup. But some of the reusable eco coffee cups, known as ‘keep cups,’ are good for kids because they are less likely to break. I would rather give my child a cleaned durable coffee cup instead of a glass. I have these cups around the home already, obviously for my coffee. So I don’t have to buy something new. If you want to get new cups for this purpose, the Huskee Cup is pretty good.
Keep an eye out for metal cups too. Just like the other dinnerware, you might find the right sorts in picnic kits or anywhere. If needing more options, there are some new stainless steel children’s cups that come with a lifetime guarantee.
Silicone sippy
If you need a sippy cup at the table for the baby or toddler, try putting a silicone sippy top on a cup. How clever is that idea? They probably go best with the stainless steel cups. But you could use anything under close supervision.
Switch to a coconut bowl and wooden spoon for durable sustainable tableware. Image above: Unsplash.
See more articles about parenting babies and children:
