-
Step 1
Remember that toddlers have tiny tummies. Instead of piling their food on a dinner plate, offer a tablespoon of food at a time on a salad plate. In addition, some children are fussy about their food "touching." Try to give your child just one food at a time.
-
Step 2
Disguise your toddler's food. Add fruits to whole-grain muffins or bread. Stir pureed vegetables into pasta sauce.
-
Step 3
Offer dried fruits, such as raisins and apricots, as treats. Fruit is naturally sweet and is a healthier alternative to cookies and crackers.
-
Step 4
Serve whole foods as opposed to processed meals. The more food is handled, the less healthy it is.
-
Step 5
Choose foods that pack a 2-in-1 punch of nutrition. For example, yogurt is a good source of calcium and protein. Prepare a slice of whole-wheat pizza topped with vegetables and cheese.
-
Step 6
Limit your toddler's liquid intake, including juice and milk. Little bellies that are full of liquid have little room for anything else.
-
Step 7
Let your child tell you when she is hungry. Likewise, do not force your child to eat or to finish everything on her plate.
