As a baby, your child grew swiftly -- at a pace of approximately 3 inches every three months, according to the Nemours website Kidshealth. At 1 year, your child entered his toddler phase, a period where growth slows to a mere 3 to 5 inches yearly. In spite of this more leisurely growth pace, your child requires a balanced diet. Nutritious meals and snacks help him develop, stay healthy and transition into new eating habits.
Table Food
In his first months, your baby was satisfied with breast milk or formula. At 1 year, he has been testing new tastes and textures and grasping foods of different shapes and sizes. Ideal foods for a 1-year-old child include whole-grain cereal, yogurt, pasta and bits of meat or eggs. Keep in mind, your toddler needs a variety of foods daily, foods from the same groups that you eat: dairy, meat, whole grain, fruits and vegetables, although his portion sizes are smaller.
Preparing Meals and Snacks
Offer your child the same healthy foods you pile on your own plate, but test the temperature to be sure her food is not too hot. Avoid fried foods, which might give your toddler gas. If you're a fan of spices and salts, give your child the plain version, as heavily seasoned foods might be bothersome and will prevent him from tasting a food's true flavors. Between meals, offer your child nutritious snacks such as bananas, cheese and whole-grain toast, but avoid foods that present choking hazards, such as citrus fruits, nuts, grapes, carrots, popcorn and hot dogs. Cutting and mashing his foods helps, but it's always best to watch him eat, especially if she's an assertive eater.
Beverages
By his first birthday, your child may have swapped his bottle for a cup. Even if he's still using a bottle, he will likely be be acquiring most of his calories from solid foods. Milk is still a significant beverage, however, and he should consume around 2 cups daily. Whole milk is best, as it provides essential dietary fats your child needs for normal growth and brain development. If obesity is a concern, reduced-fat milk is acceptable. Your child might also enjoy the taste of fruit juices, but avoid serving soda, caffeinated beverages and those that contain added sugar, especially before nap time or late in the evening to prevent tooth decay. Give your child a beverage with each meal and with snacks, as well.
Daily Caloric Intake
Although the exact number of calories your toddler needs varies, based on her activity level and size, most toddlers should consume around 1,000 calories daily. Some days your child may seem to eat nonstop, while other times she may shun food. As long as she eats well most of the time, you'll have no reason to panic. If, however, your child's appetite concerns you, consult his pediatrician for advice.
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