Feeding Milestones

0-3 months

 

  • Suck-swallow reflex

  • Beginning to bring hand to mouth

4-6 months

 

  • Takes in a spoonful of pureed food without choking

  • Opens mouth when food is approaching

  • Begins to feed self with fingers

7-12 months

 

  • Begins to eat ground or finely chopped foods

  • Tries to start feeding with a spoon, but turns it over

1-2 years

 

  • Consumes all textures

  • Can drink using straw

  • Primarily feeds self

2-3 years

 

  • Uses fork independently

  • Holds cup with one hand

  • Drinks without spillage

3-4 years

 

  • Becomes the helper in the kitchen

Case-Smith, J., & O'Brien, J. C. (2014). Feeding Intervention. In Occupational Therapy for Children and Adolescents (pp. 394–395). essay, Mosby.