A Child’s Growth Rate
A child’s growth rate slows after infancy, and toddlers ages two and three do not require as much food. Establishing healthy meal routines is an important step in healthy toddler development. Ideally, mealtimes should take place at regular times, at a table with limited distraction, and children should be encouraged to feed themselves with adult support as needed. 34 Best practices in early care and education include creating positive meal and snack times that are served family- style with adult modeling eating balanced nutrition.
Engaging Families in Supporting Their Toddler’s Nutrition Here are tips you can share with families:
Serving sizes for toddlers are much smaller than serving sizes for adults.
A typical serving size for a toddler drink is 4-6 ounces. Water and milk are the best choices for toddlers
Your toddler (and you too!) needs food from all five of the food groups—grains, protein, vegetables, fruit, and dairy. Try offering a variety of foods from these groups at meals and snacks.
Your toddler may eat more some days and less on others. Don’t worry, this is normal! Keep offering regularly scheduled meals and snacks.
Allow your toddler to tell you when she is full. This teaches them to listen to their body for signs of hunger or fullness.
Try using child-size plates, bowls, and utensils for “right-size” portions for your toddler. Using child-size utensils also makes it easier for your toddler to eat.
