As your baby begins to take an interest in self-feeding, you'll want to provide him with the tools he needs to make the transition as easy as possible. Utensils are a big part of this - without utensils that work with little hands, baby isn't likely to stay interested in self-feeding for long.

Baby utensils come in lots of shapes and sizes, but the best ones will make self-feeding virtually effortless, offering good fits and easy grips. They'll also take your needs into account - making cleaning and travel as easy as they can be.

For example, Sassy's Flexi-Grip Toddler Fork and Spoon Set offers an angled spoon to keep spills at bay, and the utensils change color to warn you when food is too hot. And their Feeding Spoon Set comes three to a pack, with looped handles and textured surfaces making it easier for little hands to hold onto.

If you're concerned about keeping baby's teeth protected, Nuby's Hot Safe Spoons change color with hotter temperatures like the Sassy line of utensils, but they also come with soft tip inserts to protect baby's tiny gums and up-and-coming teeth.

Boon Benders Adaptable Utensils were designed around the idea of transitioning to self-feeding, with adjustable ends that can be set at the perfect angle for baby to get food from point A to point B. As motor skills develop, the ends can be adjusted bit-by-bit, until they're completely straight and baby's no longer a novice!

Once your baby has graduated to toddlerhood, straight utensils will come more into your focus. Boon offers a second level just for these days of transition. ModWare's ergonomic design more closely resembles adult tableware, but with softer edges and soft handles. With this intermediate-level utensil, your child can have the best of both worlds.

You and your baby are about to embark on a self-feeding adventure. Choose your utensils wisely and it can be a time of fun and discovery for both of you!