Meal Plan For A One Year Old

When it comes to feeding a 1 year old, every day can be different. Some toddlers are picky eaters while others are happy to clean their plates. While there is no one-size-fits-all meal plan for a 1 year old, there are a few general guidelines you can follow to keep your toddler healthy and happy.

Calories For Toddlers

Determining how much to feed your 1 year old can be confusing. While many kids will stop eating when they are full, others will clean their plates and continue to eat more if given the opportunity. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the average 1 year old needs around 1000 calories per day. This is around half of what the average mom eats, which can be a starting guideline for serving sizes. Dr. Ari Brown, a pediatrician and the co-author of "Baby 411," recommends 1 year olds eat three square meals a day, with two healthy snacks between meals.

The Food Groups

When planning meals for your 1 year old, use the four food groups as your guide. Like adults, babies need foods from each of these groups every day. Excluding foods from any single food group may leave your child lacking some of the vital nutrients he needs for healthy development. The AAP recommends that toddlers get a variety of proteins, fruits and vegetables, grains and dairy products every day. When planning a meal, try to always include a fruit or a vegetable. In addition, choose healthy proteins like yogurts and low-sodium meats. When your toddler is agreeable, opt for whole grains over those made from white flour. Being mindful that what your toddler eats can help establish healthy eating habits from a young age.

Good Fats

Unlike adults, 1 year olds actually need high amounts of fat and cholesterol in their diets. While you may be used to choosing skim milk for yourself, your toddler should have full-fat dairy products until the age of 2. Choosing whole milk, whole milk yogurt, full-fat cheese and whole milk cottage cheese is best for your baby. In fact, the AAP recommends that around half of a 1-year old child's calories come from fat.

Getting Baby to Eat

Never mind nutrition; sometimes, simply getting your 1 year old to eat can be a challenge in itself. Making food fun and exciting may help. A cookie cutter can turn a turkey and cheese sandwich on wheat into a star or a dinosaur. Try using colorful plates, cups and utensils to spark your child's interest in mealtime. Arrange fruit slices in fun patterns for a snack. If all else fails, try offering your toddler a choice like ravioli or a grilled cheese sandwich. In addition to spicing up mealtime, parents should also realize that toddler eating habits may fluctuate from day to day. This is not cause for concern, however, as offering a variety of wholesome foods will ensure that his nutrients balance out.