Toddlers can be notoriously picky when it comes to sitting down and eating a nutritious meal. They often want to eat the things that you would rather they didn't have. Making sure that your toddler's meals are filled with choice, interaction and creativity can help you in the daily struggle to get your toddler to eat. Julie Whittington, a registered dietitian, notes that you should be offering three meals a day, plus two snacks, to make sure that your toddler stays healthy. Use innovative ideas for your toddler's meals.
Pick and Choose
A toddler will be more likely to eat her meal if it is something that she chose by herself. This means beginning a meal with options for her to pick from gives you a better chance at success. Offer your toddler two choices, such as organic macaroni and cheese or white meat chicken tenders. Offering this choice beforehand is a good idea to stop any resistance or arguments later during the meal.
Finger Foods
Forks and spoons can cramp the style of a toddler on the go. Sitting down to a meal sounds unappealing when he's playing. That's why offering a selection of finger foods that he can eat quickly with his nimble hands is better. Cut up sandwiches into small, bite-sized pieces and offer small cubes of ham, cheese or vegetables for little hands to grab.
Dipper's Delight
Many toddlers are more apt to try foods if they can dip them into some of their favorite condiments. Setting out ketchup, ranch dressing, honey mustard and hummus can pique their interest, and then handing them an assortment of crackers, potatoes and sliced vegetables can entice them to dip foods to create a healthy and balanced meal.
Backward Meal
Making toddler meals special can make dinner feel like a game to them, prompting them to eat. Having a backwards meal is an interesting way to talk about meals and healthy foods, while still enticing your toddler to eat. Start the meal with her favorite dessert, like an ice cream sundae or fruit with whipped cream, and then work backward to an entree. She'll be anxious to see what comes next and delighted to tell you that you are serving the meal incorrectly.
Smoothie Breakfast
It can be a struggle to get your toddler to eat little more than sugary cereals in the morning. But BabiesOnline.com notes that a smoothie breakfast is a sneaky way to fit fruits and vegetables into a tasty meal that is ideal for toddlers who don't like to sit still. Blend together berries, bananas, apple juice and a handful of spinach, and then pour into a sippy cup or a cup with a bendable straw for a morning meal that's less of a hassle for both of you.
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