What Can I Give My Toddler To Help Him Gain Weight?

Underweight toddlers have a body mass index, or BMI, that is in the fifth percentile or lower for their age. This condition can be caused by anything from a family's food insecurity to underlying conditions such as celiac or food allergies, so it's crucial that you work with your child's pediatrician on a plan of action. Choose foods for your toddler that are high in nutrients and also calorie-dense. Feed your child a variety of foods as well for optimal nutrition.

Dairy

Full-fat dairy products are calorie-dense, yet provide several nutrients that your growing toddler needs. Calcium, protein and, in the case of fortified milk, vitamins A and D are all provided by dairy foods. Yogurt with live cultures or probiotics also offers beneficial bacteria to help maintain good gastrointestinal health. Try offering your child a smoothie made of whole yogurt or a bowl of ice cream for a snack. Also try garnishing fruit salad with real whipped cream and using cream cheese on graham crackers, bagels or as a sandwich filling.

Coconut Milk

If your child is allergic or sensitive to dairy, but can tolerate nuts, try coconut milk. Coconut milk is calorie-rich and a good source of iron, magnesium and potassium. Use it in a smoothie in place of yogurt or milk.

Potatoes

Potatoes are another high-calorie food that delivers a high nutrient load -- especially if you leave the skins on. They are a surprisingly strong source of vitamin C as well as a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, folate, iron, magnesium and potassium. Potatoes also marry well with high-calorie dairy products, so serve your underweight toddler baked potatoes with sour cream and butter or mashed potatoes with milk or cream and butter.

Fruit

Dried fruit in particular is a calorie-dense food that is also high in nutrients. All dried fruits are high in fiber; the rest of their nutritional profile varies from fruit to fruit. You can also serve your toddler canned fruit in syrup -- the sugar in the syrup provides an extra calorie boost.

Avocado

Avocados are a high-fat fruit, but they are also packed with nutrients. One avocado provides a hefty dose of fiber plus plenty of vitamin E, vitamin C, folate, vitamin B6, magnesium and potassium. Many children enjoy avocado simply served in slices or mashed. You can also offer it in the form of guacamole accompanied by tortilla chips.