I agree with both previous posts-my DS wasn't keep on stage 3 foods...he didn't mind pureed and thicker, but if it had chunks in it, forget it. Even now at 14 months, he won't eat that stuff-but he'll happily eat anything on our plate! I think the issue is he sees it on a spoon and expects it to be a certain texture, versus if he can pick up the food item he knows what to expect. Try some banana pieces or kiwi pieces, your DS might LOVE being able to "self feed", and these aren't really a big choking hazard. Of course, make sure you're right there in case he has trouble. It really took my DS the hang of eating without occasionally choking, but I'm one to talk, even now I can still choke on my food if I'm not paying attention (and usually babies and toddlers are busy eating, yelling, throwing things, etc. )