DESIGNING TODDLER TABLEWARE AS A DEVELOPMENTAL INTERFACE: A MULTIDISCIPLINARY FRAMEWORK INTEGRATING BEHAVIORAL PSYCHOLOGY, ERGONOMICS, SUSTAINABILITY, AND CO-DESIGN
This study examines toddler tableware as a developmental interface that supports not only basic functionality but also cognitive, motor, emotional, and ecological growth in children aged 1–3. Drawing on developmental psychology, ergonomics, emotional design, sustainability, neurodiversity, and co-design practices, the research proposes a multidisciplinary framework comprising six key principles: behavioral alignment, ergonomic adaptability, emotional engagement, eco-education, sensory inclusivity, and caregiver collaboration. By reframing tableware as a tool for fostering autonomy and early environmental values, the study emphasizes the importance of developmentally appropriate, ecologically valid, and culturally adaptable design. Future research should adopt longitudinal and cross-cultural approaches to assess the long-term impacts of design on eating behavior, sensory development, and ecological attitudes in early childhood
Toddler Tableware, Developmental Ergonomics, Emotional Design, Eco-Education, Sensory Inclusivity, Co-Design, Early Childhood Development, User-Centered Design, Neurodiversity, Sustainability