Yeah we have done BLS so never spoon fed , I have always given a spoon or fork and let her play with it and try and use it if she wants to..
Yeah re def messy but fun and a great way for them to learn what they like , the tastes textures and how to eat different foods . I find they won't always want to eat the same amount of good and will eat what they need and want

It works for us
Of my DD will suck the other end of the spoon too hehe , it's very cute lol

What's foods is your DD having Tasha ?