Parenting Tip #6
Hints for the Picky Eater
Toddlers will like foods and dislike foods as quickly as the latest fad. With careful planning, you can make sure that they are still getting the nutrition they need.
Toddlers also seem to be hungry as soon as you begin to prepare dinner. They can never wait until it is time to eat. Although most would not recommend allowing grazing between meals, this tip can be a lifesaver. Have fresh vegetables or your protein on hand when preparing supper. In this way you can give your little one nibblets as you prepare the meal. You will no longer have to worry if they don't eat all their peas at supper, if they ate their portion ahead of time. Toddlers are also more apt to eat the foods you give them when there are not as many choices and they "believe" they are starving. Many times you will find a toddler that eat raw vegetable slices when Mommy is preparing a salad, but won't touch a salad once on their plate at dinner.
It can also be helpful to not provide your toddler as many choices at supper. For instance if your little one will always eat their pasta, but never the protein, don't fill their plate with the pasta. Instead, put only the protein on their plate. They will be more likely to eat it if it is the only option. The only problem is that this tip can be difficult if your toddler sees everyone else's plates. To remedy this, feed your child the difficult food right before everyone sits down. Then at dinner, they can have all the pasta they want and you can have the wonderful family dinner!
Did You Know???
Your picky eater may be getting all the nutrition they need. Most parents believe otherwise, but in actuality toddler portion sizes are very different than adults. By providing a couple bites of this and that throughout the day, your toddler will be likely to hit all the food groups and portion sizes. Make sure you are providing your toddler something healthy to eat every 2 to 3 hours and you will be sure to keep their tummies and spirits happy!
For instance one portion size of grains can be achieved in two Saltine crackers for 1 to 3 year olds. Many parents would feel that this is not nearly enough. Also, a toddler sized portion of protein is only one ounce. This can be estimated as about the size of your ring and pinky finger. Make sure that your expectations for what your toddler eats are realistic. For more information on portion sizes, check out Earth's Best. They have great recommendations to keep your toddler healthy.
Also, remember toddlers may eat everything in sight one day and nothing the next. This is not always a concern. You do not have to worry so much, toddlers will eat when they are hungry and usually catch up after eating lightly one day. They may be just coming off a growth spurt, or if eating a lot in a growth spurt. It is only a concern if they are consistently not eating and loosing weight. If you notice that your toddler is not gaining weight and not eating, you should consult your pediatrician. It may be advised to begin a supplement to assist with nutrition.