If you’re a parent, no doubt you have a drawer (or more) dedicated to all your kids cups, utensils, plates etc. They tend to multiply very quickly and yet we never seem to have enough. I can’t count how many sippy cups have literally disappeared before my eyes! Since these are things we find ourselves constantly replenishing, sometimes we (myself included) may not take the time to weigh quality over quantity. However, the majority of the time I do try to choose products to serve my children’s food on that is safe and free of BPA and other harmful chemicals or toxins. Since these items come into direct contact with what they are consuming, making sure that they do not contain anything harmful is of top priority.

While many plastics can be toxic, I was very happy to be introduced to a line of kids products that use only safe, food-grade silicone in everything that they create. Founded by moms (who obviously know what they’re talking about) Silikids designs modern (and super colourful) products that are functional and on the cutting edge of silicone advancement. Did you know that silicone is made from silicon which is a natural element in sand, quartz and rock? It’s transformed into silicone when combined with oxygen, carbon and hydrogen. I have to admit I didn’t know this, but now I am much more confident in using silicone products because I understand where it comes from and how it’s non-toxic, hypo allergenic and doesn’t promote the growth of bacteria.

We were given an assortment of Silikids products to try and I have to say we are all big fans over here! I love the little glass cups as they are the perfect transition piece for a toddler learning to drink on his own, and the silicone shield acts as a buffer for slippery little fingers that are prone to dropping things. A winning combo in my books!

The shovel-shaped spoons are also one of our faves since they are a great size for toddlers learning to feed themselves, and also double as a teether for your baby. Nothing like utensils that serve two purposes and can be used by multiple members of the family! My son loved sipping from his “big boy” cup, but using the spoon was also way too much fun! We love smoothies in our house, what about you? We thought we would share a recipe that we love and that your toddler is also sure to enjoy!

STRAWBERRY AND PEACH SMOOTHIE: (recipe adapted from Eat Healthy Eat Happy)
– 2 cups strawberries
– 2 cups frozen peaches
– 1 cup coconut milk (or almond)
– 1/2 of an orange
– 1 tbsp maple syrup (or other sweetener)
Blend all ingredients together and enjoy!

I also have to talk about the bib which has ended up being almost more enjoyable than the food it’s suppose to be keeping baby clean from. It’s super-thin silicone design makes it great for storing as it takes up very little space, and it also can be packed away compactly in your diaper bag. It’s great that it’s safe and soft on little gums, but it just might be too appealing because when a teething baby decides to chew on it, any and all food ends up spilling out the sides! I would recommend keeping a cloth or paper-towel close by if you’ve got a teething baby on your hands, but despite this inconvenience (which will pass once your baby passes this stage) it’s great to have piece of mind knowing that what your baby ends up chewing on is safe.

I’m also really excited about some new products that Silikids is coming out with in April that we can’t wait to try out. They are releasing silicone cups (that don’t lose their shape) and silicone straws that pair perfectly with their cup tops and come in multiple sizes for different cups heights! Check out their website to pre-order these items.

Silikids products are available in the US at www.silikids.com or if you live in Canada you can visit Kid Central to find a retailer closest to you. I’m happy to have partnered with Silikids to giveaway a gift package to one of my readers containing drinking glasses, a bib and spoons.

Here’s how to enter:
1. Follow @silikids and @themintedmama on Instagram and tag a friend
2. For a bonus entry, comment here and tell me how important safe feeding products are to your family
Contest closes Monday, March 14, 2016 at midnight and the winner will be announced Tuesday, March 15, 2016.
Open to Canadian and US residents.

* Thank you Silikids for collaborating on this post