Kids' chopsticks are smaller versions of the chopsticks that adults use. They are typically a few inches shorter than adult chopsticks to make them easier for small hands to hold. There are also training chopsticks available that have a ring to hold the thumb in place or special ridges to encourage correct finger placement. Depending upon were you purchase your kids' chopsticks, you may be able to find chopsticks with fun patterns or whimsical designs for added appeal.
Although chopsticks are most commonly associated with Chinese or Japanese cuisine, eating any ordinary meal with chopsticks can be a fun experience for a child. However, learning how to use kids' chopsticks is a skill that requires a great deal of practice. As a general rule, children under the age of five do not have the coordination, patience, or manual dexterity required to use kids' chopsticks.
To begin teaching your son or daughter to use chopsticks, place both chopsticks in your child's hand in the position used to hold a single pencil. Slip the middle finger between the two sticks and wedge the bottom chopstick into the crevice between the thumb and index finger. The thumb and index finger are then used to move the top chopstick up and down in order to grab small bits of food. In China, parents often tell their children to visualize the chopsticks as a bird's beak opening and closing.
As your child is learning to use chopsticks, it is helpful to stick to meals that contain lots of meat and larger vegetables. Noodles and rice are the most difficult foods to pick up with chopsticks. Keeping a fork available for this part of the meal may help prevent unnecessary frustration. Additionally, remember that bowls are usually easier to eat from than plates.
If your child is still struggling to master chopsticks after several meals, you may want to consider purchasing a small rubber "hinge" that slips onto the chopsticks to make them easier to manage. These devices are available from most specialty kitchen stores.
Regardless of your age, table manners are very important when eating with chopsticks. When teaching your child to use kids' chopsticks, remind him or her to cut up pieces of food that are too large to fit into the mouth with just one bite. If there is a chopstick rest provided, place the chopsticks back on the rest when finished with the meal. When your food is served in a bowl with a lid, it's also polite to replace the lid after eating.
