The toddler years are exciting--your child is learning to walk, talk and feed herself. While overall growth tends to slow during this period, a well-balanced diet is still important for optimal physical and mental development. Protein is a critical nutrient for your growing toddler, and she should eat two to four ounces of protein-rich foods every day, according to KidsHealth.org. Choose from a variety of protein sources to capitalize on their various additional nutrients, such as calcium, iron and healthy fats.
Milk
Milk is rich in protein and also provides your toddler with bone-nourishing calcium and vitamin D. MyPyramid.gov suggests toddlers drink 16 ounces of milk every day. Select full-fat dairy products until your child reaches his second birthday, and then switch to a lower-fat variety.
Yogurt
Yogurt may be served plain or mixed with mashed fresh fruits for flavor and variety. In addition to protein and calcium, yogurt offers beneficial bacteria that keep your young one's digestive system healthy. In addition, yogurt offers a good way for your growing toddler to practice using a spoon.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is another dairy product containing significant protein. It is safer for your toddler to eat than processed cheese slices or other chunks of cheese, which may present a choking hazard. As with yogurt, cottage cheese may be mixed with mashed or pureed fruits for variety and added nutrition.
Eggs
Eggs not only supply protein, but also other essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, folate and vitamin D, according to IncredibleEgg.org. Scramble eggs and serve them to your toddler as finger food until her fork and spoon skills develop.
Meat
Meats are packed with protein and minerals like iron. However, your youngster may not yet be able to chew fibrous or tough pieces of meat, explains the Seattle & King County Department of Public Health. Therefore, select tender meats that do not require advanced chewing skills. In addition, avoid round or tube-shaped meats, including hot dogs and sausage links, that may block your child's airway before they are fully chewed.
Fish
Fish provides very high quality protein to meet your child's protein needs. Choose fresh, mild-flavored fish to begin with, and cook until it flakes with a fork. As your toddler's tastes expand, introduce more strongly flavored fish such as canned chunk light tuna and salmon. Limit fish consumption to two servings per week to avoid exposure to environmental toxins sometimes found in fish.
Nut Butters
Nut butters, such as peanut butter or almond butter, are good sources of plant-based proteins that also contain healthy fats. The Seattle & King County Department of Public Health advises against serving your toddler a large dollop of nut butter by itself, as it has the potential to stick in his throat and clog his airway. Instead, spread a thin layer of nut butter on a cracker or piece of bread before serving.
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