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What are Training Chopsticks?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

While many persons are proficient with using chopsticks, the fact is that all of them had to learn from the beginning. Training chopsticks are a great way to introduce the uninitiated into the proper way to eat using the sticks instead of forks and spoons. Here are some examples of the two main types of chopsticks and how they can help the novice learn to be comfortable and enjoy using this common mealtime tool.

Practice chopsticks for adults are often found in a number of different types of ethnic restaurants. The training chopsticks that are geared for adult use are the same length as a conventional set, and are usually constructed with an inexpensive wood. What sets the training chopsticks apart is the fact that they are joined at the top of the set. This allows the novice to focus more on learning how to hold the sticks properly and work the pronged ends to pick up food.

The upper chopstick should be held with the index finger, middle finger, and thumb, while the lower chopstick should be placed in between the thumb and end of the ring finger.
The upper chopstick should be held with the index finger, middle finger, and thumb, while the lower chopstick should be placed in between the thumb and end of the ring finger.

As the user begins to feel more comfortable with using the chopsticks, the training chopsticks can easily be broken apart. In one short meal, an individual can progress from beginner to seasoned pro while using the same set of training chopsticks.

Training chopsticks for young children are even easier to use the first time out. Most types of children’s chopsticks are equipped with small loops that are strategically placed at the right positions on the training chopsticks. This allows the child to get used to gripping the chopsticks properly with the hand and placing the fingers in the right place for maximum maneuvering. While the child is learning the correct process for using the training chopsticks, he or she is also likely to have a lot of fun. Children's chopsticks are often decorated with images that appeal to young children, which adds to the fun of the learning process.

While it is possible to obtain a set of training chopsticks from some Chinese, Japanese, or Korean restaurants, they can also be purchased at food markets that cater to Asian and Oriental cuisine loving customers. The basic wooden adult style training chopsticks are very inexpensive, while the training chopsticks for children may cost a little more. Generally, there are instructions included with the training chopsticks. However, there are also a number of step-by-step tutorials online that you can download.

Learning to eat with chopsticks can be a lot of fun and can make the meal all the more inviting. Even people who feel they have two left thumbs can learn to use chopsticks, thanks to these simple training models. If you want to learn how to enjoy Asian cuisine as it was intended, pick up a set of training chopsticks today.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including DelightedCooking, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

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Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including DelightedCooking, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Rotergirl

I could have used training chopsticks when I was learning to eat with them. They would have been helpful. Instead, I struggled along, with tips from the restaurant owners, whom I knew were really trying not to laugh at me. I know I looked ridiculous trying to use the darn things, but they were the soul of patience with me and I'm glad I stuck with it.

I prefer wooden chopsticks -- noodles stick to them better. They slide right off of plastic ones.

Pippinwhite

I saw some funny training chopsticks in an Asian gift shop. They were plastic and had a geared wheel joining the two sticks so they would move in tandem. They were really hilarious, but the salesperson (who was Asian) said they were great for kids, and her kids had learned to use chopsticks by using those. I thought they were a gag gift.

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    • The upper chopstick should be held with the index finger, middle finger, and thumb, while the lower chopstick should be placed in between the thumb and end of the ring finger.
      By: T.Tulik
      The upper chopstick should be held with the index finger, middle finger, and thumb, while the lower chopstick should be placed in between the thumb and end of the ring finger.