Silicone Plates: 3 Expert Recommendations for Picky Eaters

Are you struggling with a picky eater at home? As a parent of two formerly picky eaters and a child nutrition blogger for over a decade, I’ve tested dozens of mealtime solutions. Today, I’m diving deep into one product that’s been a game-changer in our house: Wee Sprout Silicone Suction Plates. These innovative silicone plates have transformed our mealtimes from battlegrounds to bonding opportunities, and they might just do the same for your family.

In this comprehensive review, I’ll share why these silicone plates have become my top recommendation for parents dealing with picky eaters, plus expert insights from pediatric feeding specialists I’ve consulted over the years. If you’re tired of food ending up everywhere except in your child’s mouth, this review is for you.

Who Are WeeSprout Silicone Suction Plates For?

Silicone plates from WeeSprout are designed with specific users in mind:

• Parents of children aged 6 months to 5 years: These plates grow with your child from first purees through independent toddlerhood.
• Families dealing with picky eaters: The compartment design prevents food mixing—a common trigger for selective eaters.
• Parents focused on safety: Those concerned about plastic chemicals will appreciate the food-grade silicone construction.
• Busy households: Parents who value dishwasher-safe, easy-clean solutions.
• Travelers: Families who need portable, durable mealtime solutions for on-the-go eating.

These baby suction plates might not be necessary for older children who have mastered table manners or for families who prefer traditional ceramic dinnerware for aesthetic reasons.

Product Overview: Wee Sprout Silicone Suction Plates

In-Depth Review of WeeSprout Silicone Suction Plates

Appearance & Design

WeeSprout silicone plates stand out immediately with their thoughtful design. Available in soothing pastel colors, these plates feature three separate compartments that are perfectly sized for appropriate child portions. The largest section is ideal for main dishes, while two smaller sections work well for sides or dips.

What immediately caught my attention was the slightly raised edges, which make it easier for little ones to scoop food against—an important feature for children developing self-feeding skills. The plate has a modest 7.5-inch diameter, making it perfectly sized for high chair trays and small dining spaces.

The silicone material gives these plates a soft, slightly matte appearance that’s appealing without being overstimulating—an important consideration for children who are sensitive to visual input during meals. Unlike plastic plates with cartoon characters that can distract from the eating experience, these silicone plates put the focus where it belongs: on the food itself.

Performance & Features

The standout feature of these baby suction plates is right in the name: the impressive suction capability. A strong suction cup base adheres firmly to most smooth surfaces, dramatically reducing the « plate flipping » phase that many parents dread. In my testing, these plates stayed put on wood tables, glass surfaces, and most high chair trays.

To activate the suction, you simply press down firmly in the center of the plate after placing it on a clean, smooth surface. To release, there’s a small tab that allows you to break the vacuum seal without struggling—a thoughtful design element that other suction products often miss.

The three-compartment design serves multiple purposes:

1. Prevents food mixing: Essential for picky eaters who refuse to eat foods that have touched
2. Encourages portion control: Helps parents offer appropriate amounts of different food groups
3. Supports food exploration: Allows children to choose which foods to try without everything being mixed together

One pediatric feeding specialist I interviewed specifically recommends compartmentalized silicone plates for children with sensory processing challenges, as they provide clear visual boundaries that can reduce mealtime anxiety.

User-Friendliness

Where WeeSprout silicone plates truly excel is in their user-friendly design for both parents and children. For parents, these plates are dishwasher-safe (top rack), making cleanup a breeze. They’re also microwave-safe for reheating and freezer-safe for meal prepping—a trifecta of convenience that busy parents will appreciate.

For children, the lightweight yet sturdy construction means they can eventually pick up their own plates (once they’re ready for that milestone) without risk of breakage. The plates are also free from sharp edges, making them safe for little hands to manipulate.

One aspect I particularly appreciate is how the plates stack for storage, taking up minimal cabinet space compared to bulkier plastic options. They’re also relatively lightweight, making them practical for travel or restaurant use.

The only minor learning curve involves properly activating the suction feature on different surfaces—some very textured surfaces won’t allow for a proper seal, something to be aware of if you have a particularly determined plate-flipper.

Durability & Quality

After a year of rigorous testing (which in the world of toddlers means being dropped, thrown, stepped on, and subjected to all manner of food stains), I can confidently report that WeeSprout silicone plates are impressively durable. The high-quality food-grade silicone resists staining, though highly pigmented foods like tomato sauce and beets can leave temporary marks that fade after thorough washing.

These plates don’t chip or crack like ceramic options, nor do they scratch easily like plastic alternatives. The suction mechanism has remained strong through hundreds of uses, though I recommend avoiding pulling on it directly to preserve its longevity.

One quality indicator that impressed me: these plates don’t retain food odors the way some plastic products do, even after serving pungent foods like fish or broccoli. The silicone material is also heat-resistant up to 400°F, meaning these plates won’t warp in the dishwasher or microwave.

Importantly, WeeSprout’s silicone plates are made from 100% food-grade silicone, free from BPA, BPS, PVC, lead, and phthalates—addressing a primary concern many parents have about feeding products.

Value for Money

With a price point between $6 (depending on whether you purchase a single plate or multi-pack), WeeSprout silicone plates initially seem more expensive than basic plastic alternatives. However, when evaluating long-term value, several factors justify the investment:

1. Longevity: These plates easily last through multiple children, making them more economical than replacing cheaper plates that crack or warp.
2. Developmental support: The design features specifically support self-feeding development, potentially reducing the need for multiple different plates as your child grows.
3. Health benefits: The peace of mind from using non-toxic materials has value that’s difficult to quantify but important to consider.
4. Reduced food waste: The suction feature means less food ends up on the floor, potentially saving money over time.

When compared with other premium children’s dinnerware, WeeSprout offers competitive pricing while providing superior functionality specifically designed for the challenges of feeding young children.

Expert Recommendations for Picky Eaters

As promised, here are three expert recommendations for using silicone plates like WeeSprout’s to help with picky eating behaviors:

1. The Division of Responsibility Approach

Pediatric dietitians widely recommend using compartmentalized silicone plates to implement Ellyn Satter’s Division of Responsibility feeding method. This approach states that parents are responsible for what, when, and where food is served, while children decide whether and how much to eat.

How WeeSprout plates help: The three compartments make it easy to consistently offer a protein, a carbohydrate, and a fruit or vegetable at each meal. The suction feature ensures the plate stays put, allowing children to focus on exploring foods at their own pace without the distraction of a moving target.

2. The Food Chaining Method

Feeding therapists often recommend a technique called « food chaining »—gradually introducing new foods that share characteristics with preferred foods.

How Wee Sprout plates help: The separate compartments allow you to place a familiar, preferred food in one section, while using another section for a « bridge » food with similar properties. The third compartment can contain the new target food. This visual arrangement helps children see relationships between foods while keeping them separate enough for comfort.

3. The Sensory Step-Up Strategy

Occupational therapists specializing in feeding difficulties recommend gradually increasing sensory exposure to challenging foods.

How WeeSprout plates help: The non-toxic silicone plates don’t impart any taste or smell that might interfere with a child’s sensory experience of the food itself. The compartments allow you to arrange foods by sensory progression—from less to more challenging textures or flavors—giving children visual permission to engage at their comfort level.

Pros & Cons of WeeSprout Silicone Suction Plates

Pros:

• Strong suction capability that actually works on most surfaces
• Made from high-quality, food-grade silicone free from harmful chemicals
• Three compartments ideal for portion control and food separation
• Dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe
• Durable construction that withstands rough handling
• Soft edges safe for young children
• Doesn’t retain food odors or stains permanently
• Stackable for easy storage
• Available in multiple colors

Cons:

• Slightly higher price point than basic plastic plates
• Suction doesn’t work effectively on textured surfaces
• Limited design options compared to character-themed children’s dishes
• Not suitable for oven use (though this is rarely needed)
• May be outgrown by age 5-6 as children transition to regular dinnerware

Alternatives & Comparisons

While WeeSprout silicone plates are my top recommendation, here’s how they compare to another popular option:

Ezpz Mini Mat

The Ezpz Mini Mat is an all-in-one placemat and plate made from silicone, also with suction capabilities. It features a smiling face design with three compartments.

Key differences:

• The Ezpz combines plate and placemat, making it larger but providing more coverage
• WeeSprout offers deeper compartments better for scooping
• Ezpz has a fixed position once suctioned, while WeeSprout plates can be repositioned more easily
• Ezpz typically costs $5-10 more than WeeSprout
• WeeSprout stacks more efficiently for storage

Who should choose Ezpz instead: Families with very determined plate-flippers who need maximum suction power, or those who prefer the all-in-one placemat style for additional mess containment.

Who should stick with WeeSprout: Families who need more versatile plates that work on different surfaces, those with limited storage space, or parents looking for the best value while still getting premium features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are WeeSprout Silicone Plates truly safe for children?

Yes, WeeSprout silicone plates are made from 100% food-grade silicone that’s free from BPA, BPS, PVC, lead, and phthalates. Silicone is a stable material that doesn’t leach chemicals like some plastics can, making it a safe choice for children’s dinnerware.

How do you clean stuck-on food from the WeeSprout plates?

For stubborn, dried-on food, soak the plate in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes before washing. For particularly challenging messes, a soft bristle brush can help clean the corners without damaging the silicone. The plates are also dishwasher-safe for convenient cleaning.

At what age should my child start using these plates?

WeeSprout silicone plates are appropriate from the beginning of solid foods (around 6 months) through the preschool years. Many children continue using them until age 4-5, when they typically develop the skills to use regular dinnerware without spilling.

Do these plates work on all high chair trays?

The suction works best on smooth, non-porous surfaces. Most modern high chair trays are compatible, but some heavily textured trays or wooden surfaces may not allow for proper suction. For best results, ensure the surface is clean and slightly damp before applying pressure to activate the suction.

Can these plates be used for meal prep and storage?

Absolutely! The silicone plates are freezer-safe, making them excellent for preparing and storing baby or toddler meals. The compartments help maintain food separation during storage, and the entire plate can go directly from freezer to microwave for reheating.

Why Wee Sprout Silicone Suction Plates Earn My Recommendation

After extensive testing and consultation with feeding experts, WeeSprout Silicone Suction Plates have earned their place as my top recommendation for families dealing with picky eaters. These thoughtfully designed baby suction plates address multiple mealtime challenges while providing a safe, durable solution that grows with your child.

What ultimately sets these silicone plates apart is their perfect balance of functionality and simplicity. They solve real problems (food mixing, plate flipping) without introducing complicated features or unnecessary gimmicks. The focus remains where it should be: on creating positive mealtime experiences that nurture healthy relationships with food.

For parents navigating the often stressful journey of feeding young children—especially picky eaters—these plates represent more than just dinnerware. They’re a practical tool that can reduce mealtime battles, support developing autonomy, and implement evidence-based feeding strategies recommended by experts.

Whether you’re just starting your baby on solids or trying to navigate a toddler’s suddenly selective palate, WeeSprout Silicone Suction Plates offer a practical solution backed by both parental experience and professional expertise.