“At mealtimes, is {child_name} using a spoon to feed {him_her}self — maybe messily, but getting food to {his_her} mouth?”
Follow-up: “Does {he_she} pick the spoon up by choice, or still prefer fingers?”
Not yet
Finger-feeding only; doesn't pick up a spoon
Emerging
Holds the spoon, needs help to load and aim
Developing
Feeds {him_her}self with a spoon — often a bit messy
Secure
Uses a spoon with minimal spillage at most meals
Sticky foods like porridge or yoghurt are forgiving and cling to the spoon better than runny ones.