Between 12 and 18 months, using a spoon to self-feed will become easier and easier. Your baby will become more adept at using spoons, forks, and cups – and will probably be primarily self-feeding by the second birthday. (If you have any concerns about your baby's progress, talk to your child's doctor.)

For spoon-fed babies who have graduated to finger foods, introduce small, bite-sized pieces when you first start encouraging self-feeding. Along with offering her manageable servings of food, make sure your baby is sitting upright in her chair whenever she eats. Babies who are crawling, cruising or toddling around are at risk for choking.