Toddlers often make it difficult for parents who want them to eat a healthy diet. According to Dr. William Sears, toddlers are notoriously picky eaters and grow at a slower rate than they did as infants. This slowed growth is usually normal, but have your pediatrician evaluate your child's health to make sure. Although you may not be able to completely overcome the fussy eating habits, some tactics may help encourage your little one to eat more.
Accept Food Jags
Most toddlers get in food ruts, in which they want to eat the same foods repeatedly. This is normal. Look at the big picture of the foods consumed throughout the course of a week rather than in a single day. Encourage an interest in healthy options for your child to eat frequently such as fruits and whole-grain crackers.
Promote Grazing
Toddlers only need 1,000 to 1,300 calories per day. Although most adults consume the majority of their daily calories in three distinct meals, toddlers have a different eating pattern. It is common for toddlers to eat a very small amount of food, several times a day. Toddlers may not eat much at one meal, but when spread out over 10 to 12 snacks, the total intake is adequate.
Let Him Eat Fat
Many health-conscious adults avoid fat because of its link to heart disease and obesity. Not only do they eat a low-fat diet themselves, they feed one to their children as well. However, when you have a skinny toddler, it is okay to let him eat fat. American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines recommend that children should not drink low-fat milk until after age 2 or 3.
Offer Nibble Tray
Many toddlers love to munch on small, bite-size snacks. Prepare a nibble tray which contains small finger foods, such as cheese, O-shaped cereal and pieces of apples and bananas. Many children also enjoy dips, which you may want to include in your nibble tray. Suggested dips include cream cheese, yogurt and fruit preserves.
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