Eating with a toddler: The 5 best tips for a relaxed mealtime at the family table highchair

Mealtimes with a baby or toddler are often anything but relaxed – but with the right tools and routines, they can become a real highlight of the day. We’ll share the best tips for bringing more structure, comfort and organisation to the family table.

1. The right highchair for your needs

Not all high chairs are the same – and this becomes particularly noticeable when your child starts eating regularly at the family table. Seat height, harness system, material, adjustability and accessories can vary greatly. Depending on how old your child is, the size of your dining table or how much space you have in the kitchen, a different model will suit you better. A popular classic is the IKEA ANTILOP highchair, which can be perfectly adapted to the needs of babies and toddlers with just a few simple tweaks.

Go to the ‘ highchair’ comparison

2. Keeping things tidy

Let’s be realistic: spilling food is simply part and parcel of mealtimes for little ones and is unavoidable. Nevertheless, there are a few clever tricks and practical accessories to help you get things back to organisation as quickly as possible and ensure mealtimes are hygienic.

Silicone mats : Our washable silicone mat is very practical for meals at highchair. It is non-slip and prevents plates and cups from sliding off the table. If something does go wrong, the mat can be easily washed by hand or put in the dishwasher.
: bibs Bibs with an integrated catch tray also help keep baby, the ‘ highchair’ and the floor clean. IKEA offers a silicone version that is also dishwasher-safe: the GULDVÄVARE bib.
: floor protector Despite bibs and silicone mat, it’s almost impossible to avoid spills when eating at the highchair. To provide extra protection for carpets and floors, it’s worth using a floor protector that you simply place under the highchair. The KOLON floor protector from IKEA is ideal for this.
Children’s tableware : Bowls with a non-slip silicone base are particularly recommended – they stay where they belong and don’t end up on the floor at the first attempt with a spoon. Spill-proof sippy cups also ensure significantly fewer puddles on the table.
ANTILOP highchair : The ANTILOP high chair from IKEA, made from sturdy plastic, is not only easy to wipe clean but can also be placed under the tap for washing. Once you’ve unscrewed the legs, you can simply pop the seat shell in the dishwasher.

3. Encouraging independence

So much more happens at the family table than just eating – it’s a place for learning, experimenting and developing independence. Mealtimes are a particularly important opportunity for young children to practise new skills: bringing a spoon to their mouth, pouring themselves a drink or spreading butter on their own bread. Even if things go a bit wrong along the way – that’s exactly where the learning lies. The Montessori approach shows that when we have faith in our children, they rise to the challenge.

4. Sitting safely and comfortably

Good posture is much more than just a question of ergonomics – it makes a real difference at mealtimes. If your child sits stable and upright whilst eating, it’s not only easier for them to grasp, chew and swallow, but also to concentrate and join in at the table. An footrest helps enormously: it provides secure support and prevents your child from sliding back and forth in the highchair. This creates a calm atmosphere – and your child can concentrate fully on eating.

On posture in the highchair

5. Rituals and routines promote relaxation

For young children, everyday life can often feel overwhelming – which makes fixed rituals that provide security and structure all the more important. This also plays a major role at mealtimes. If the routine around meals is always similar, it’s easier for your child to get into the swing of things. Whether it’s a little bell to signal mealtime, a song you sing together or simply fixed mealtimes – such recurring cues help switch from play mode to mealtime mode. This creates a more relaxed atmosphere for everyone involved. And what if things don’t go to plan? That’s all part of it. The important thing is to stay calm and not throw the routine out the window straight away. Children need repetition – and patience.