We never had that issue at that age, but ever since they were really young, around 1 they had no choice, we always encouraged it and stopped them if they weren't. He's def old enough to understand that he HAS to do it. If he doesn't eat food that uses them then I would really only serve things that he has to use it for so he doesn't say to himself...well I'll just eat my sandwich for lunch and not eat dinner since I have to use my fork. Make it where all meals he needs to do it, he will do it if he knows he has no choice but to do it. We have to remind the boys not to put their hands in their plates sometimes and if they keep on and won't use their forks we will ask them to leave the table and go to timeout, when they get back we explain that it's bad manners to be using your hands for things like say spaghetti and that they will not be allowed at the table if they can't eat properly...to which they will say sorry and do it the right way. Good luck!