Some children are naturally thinner than others, but if your child clocks in as underweight at her annual checkup, it's usually a sign that she needs to gain weight in order to be healthy. There are several reasons a child might be underweight, including allergies, systemic health problems and even just not getting enough calories in her everyday diet, according to Claire McCarthy, M.D., in "Parenting" magazine.
Think Dairy
Dairy products made with whole milk are a great way to add calories to your child's diet, according to BabyCenter.com, an online pregnancy and parenting resource. Offer your child full-fat yogurt as a snack or as a dipping sauce for sliced fruits; make soup, potatoes and other side dishes with full-fat milk; and add cheese to sandwiches, egg dishes and pasta.
Limit Juice
Because toddlers have small stomachs, they fill up fast. Drinking juice can satisfy their hunger without giving them the nutrients they need to gain weight, says McCarthy in "Parenting." Too much juice can even make your child lose weight because lots of juice can lead to diarrhea for some children. Offer your child a piece of juicy fruit or a glass of milk instead of juice to boost his nutritional intake.
Power Pack Your Bites
Toddlers are natural grazers, according to AskDrSears.com, the online parenting resource published by William Sears, M.D., and Martha Sears, R.N. Take advantage of their tendency to snack throughout the day by offering them nutrient-rich nibbles, including peanut butter, avocado, eggs, sweet potatoes, fatty fish or beans.
Enlist Your Doctor's Help
If you're worried about your child's weight, your child's pediatrician should be your first resource. She can give you practical advice on how to track your child's weight, rule out any medical causes for your child's low weight and suggest meal plans to help your child gain weight if you have specific dietary concerns, such as lactose intolerance or veganism.
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