How to Choose the Right Plate for Toddlers and Kids?

For parents, helping children develop healthy eating habits is an essential part of parenting. Selecting the right plate for your child (especially toddlers and kids) not only makes mealtime more enjoyable but also helps create a positive eating experience. So, what factors should parents consider when choosing a children’s plate?

1. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plate for Kids

• Material Safety

  Safety is always a top priority. Kids’ plates should be made from food-grade materials that are free from harmful chemicals like BPA, PVC, and phthalates. Common safe materials include silicone, BPA-free plastic, and plant-based materials.

• Design and Functionality

  Good plates often feature divided sections, allowing parents to separate different types of food, which is both visually appealing and practical. Additionally, the size, depth, and edge design should be appropriate for kids to easily pick up food by themselves.

• Ease of Cleaning 

  Plates that are easy to clean, dishwasher-safe, and microwave-safe can significantly reduce parents’ workload. Heat-resistant plates that can be used for reheating food in the microwave are a big plus.

• Non-Slip Base 

  A non-slip base helps prevent the plate from sliding on the table, reducing the chances of spills—especially useful for toddlers who are still learning to eat independently.

2. Popular Children’s Plates in the Australian Market

In Australia, many popular children’s plates are made from silicone and feature one-piece divided designs, where a single plate is split into smaller compartments for different types of food. Below are a few notable brands:

Marcus & Marcus

Marcus & Marcus is a well-loved brand among Australian parents. Their plates are made from food-grade silicone, known for being soft, durable, and safe. These plates can be used in the microwave and cleaned in the dishwasher, making them highly practical.

Key Features:

• The plates feature vibrant colors and playful animal designs (such as elephants, giraffes, and seals) that capture kids’ attention.
• One-piece divided design with multiple compartments, perfect for serving a variety of foods.
• Non-slip bottom ensures stability during mealtime.

Where to buy

We Might Be Tiny

We Might Be Tiny is another popular local brand, known for its minimalist aesthetic and cute animal-shaped plates. These plates are ideal for families who love stylish, high-quality kids’ products.

Key Features:

• Made from silicone, these plates are soft, flexible, and heat-resistant, allowing them to be used in the microwave, oven, and dishwasher.
• Unique designs inspired by animals (such as bears, rabbits, and cats) make mealtime fun for kids and aesthetically pleasing for parents.
• One-piece divided design, combining practicality with style.

Where to buy

Amazon Top-Ranked Plates

According to Amazon AU rankings, one of the top-selling plates features a simple silicone design with a focus on affordability. While it offers good value for money, it lacks the unique and recognizable designs of brands like Marcus & Marcus and We Might Be Tiny. This type of plate is ideal for parents looking for budget-friendly options but may not appeal as much to kids due to its plain appearance.

Where to buy

3. Introducing Nestique – A Unique and Innovative Korean Brand

While most popular plates in Australia are made from silicone and follow the one-piece divided design, the Nestique plate from Korea offers something refreshingly different. Gaining popularity internationally, Nestique plates stand out for their unique material and thoughtful design.

Key Features of Nestique Plates:

• Ecozen Plant-Based Material 

  Unlike traditional silicone plates, Nestique plates are made with Ecozen, a plant-based material that is environmentally friendly and free from harmful chemicals. This material is FDA-approved for food contact and can be recycled, making it a great choice for eco-conscious families.

• Innovative and Flexible Design 

  Nestique plates come in a set of different-sized plates that can be used individually according to different needs. This flexibility makes them suitable not only for toddlers but also for older kids. The plates feature fresh, modern color combinations and a sleek design, making them appealing to both kids and adults.

• Easy to Clean and Durable 

  These plates are dishwasher-safe and microwave-safe, ensuring they are easy to use and maintain. Thanks to the high durability of Ecozen material, the plates can withstand frequent use without losing their shape or quality.