Keep the old, while bringing in the new: It is best to introduce a new food when served with a food he already likes.

Toddler breastfeeding and formula

If toddler is still breastfeeding then try to continue this as long as you both wish, as there are so many health benefits for both of you.

Binging toddlers

Toddlers from one to three years need between 1,000 and 1,300 calories a day, yet they may not eat this amount every day. Aim for a nutritionally-balanced week, not a balanced day.

Leading by example

Children learn by watching you, so set healthy mealtime habits. Turn off the TV and let your toddler enjoy meals with the family.

Allergic causing foods and diet

It was common to delay giving dairy until 1, eggs until 2 & seafood & nuts till 3, the American Academy of Pediatrics changed its thinking in 2008, suggesting that these foods can be introduced together.

Toddler table for 1

Create a toddler-friendly eating area for your child. Toddlers like their own spaces and may eat more at a table sized just for them.

Is your toddler a picky eater?

Even if your toddler is a picky eater, if he is growing normally and is physically active, with a lot of energy, then his diet is probably okay.

Keeping energy levels high

As well as 3 meals a day, snacks are important to keep young kids’ energy levels high throughout the day. Get into the habit of giving them a healthy mid-morning and mid-afternoon snack.

Respect your toddler’s likes and dislikes.

Respect your toddler’s likes and dislikes. Gently encourage your toddler to try at least one bite of a new food. You may have to offer a new food 10-20 times before your child likes it.

Is it necessary for kids to clean their plates?

Trust your child’s appetite if he is growing normally, has energy and is healthy. Never force your child to clean his plate. This can lead to unhealthy eating habits over time.

High fiber for toddlers

Offer a high fiber, easy-to-eat cereal as part of tots daily diet. Most will happily eat O’s type cereal that is high in fiber.

Fruits and vegetables as snacks

Fruits & vegetables always make a wonderful snack for toddlers. It is important to introduce fruits and vegetables while young to develop a taste for them.

Foods can cause sleep problems

Food can contribute to sleep problems. Some babies on formula have sensitivities to certain types of formula.

Don’t force your toddler to eat

Do not make mealtimes a power struggle between you & toddler. Forcing toddler’s to eat can cause an unhealthy relationship with food that can last a lifetime.

Whole grain pasta tip

Serve your toddler whole grain pasta and brown rice, instead of their highly refined white counterparts.

Make vegetables part of a toddler’s diet

Make high fiber vegetables like broccoli, sweet potatoes, spinach and cabbage an appealing part of your toddler’s diet.

Sneaking fiber into a child’s diet

Make sandwiches with high fiber wheat bread. Try serving your toddler’s peanut butter and jelly on high fiber wheat bread.

Self feeding

Self-feeding can begin as early as 6mos, as soon as baby can pick up bits of mashed potato or banana or baby peas.

Providing high fiber to toddlers

Provide high fiber fruits such as apples, pears and prunes. Fruits are a painless way to add fiber to your toddler’s diet.

Nutrient-dense foods

Nutrient-dense foods that most children are willing to eat include: Pasta, Peanut butter, Brown rice, Potatoes, Cheese, Poultry and Eggs.

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Mixing new foods with old favorites