9 Easy Ways To Encourage Your Toddler To Eat Better

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It is an exciting time in a parents life when their child is old enough to start feeding himself, but it can also be a frustrating and challenging time. Toddlers can be very picky eaters and it can be worrisome to a parent who is concerned that their child is not getting the vitamins and minerals he needs to stay healthy. Here are 9 simple tips that will encourage your toddler to eat better.

1. Only Give Small Portions of Food

Don't overwhelm your child with large servings. It is better to let her finish a small plate or bowl of food and then ask for seconds if she is still hungry.

2. Be Aware That Appetites Change

Like adults, toddlers will eat a lot some days and not very much on other days. This is common and it is normal. Let your child eat until he is full and never force him to eat more.

3. Eat Sitting Down

Never let your child eat and toddle around at the same time. Be consistent with meal and snack time and have your child eat at the same place every time. It is also always safer to have a child sitting while eating to prevent choking.

4. Lose The Distractions

Make sure to put toys away and turn off the television to avoid any distractions while your child is eating.

5. Have Snack Cut Off Times

Don't allow your toddler to snack close to meal time. Have a cut off time that is at least 30 minutes before meal time to ensure your child is hungry when dinner is served.

6. Encourage Him To Feed Himself

Yes I know it is a messy adventure, but encouraging a child to feed himself will make it more likely that he will develop healthy independent eating habits.

7. Use a Variety of Foods

Just like adults, kids get bored of the same food all the time. Mix things up a bit in a fun way to keep your toddler inspired.

8. Be a Food Leader

Toddlers learn many of their eating habits from us. If we eat a variety of fruits and vegetables with our meals and snacks then they are more likely to do the same.

9. No Forced Eating

When I was younger, my Grandfather would never let us have dessert unless we finished everything on our plate. This is not a great way to encourge healthy eating. Let your toddler eat until she is full and learn to adapt her food consumption according to her appetite.

About the Author:
Feeding your family can be fun and easy with the right tools. Kitchen gadgets like the Cuisinart Food Processor and KitchenAid Mixer Attachments are the perfect solution for any busy Mom.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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