Feeding Kiddos
Do you wonder why your toddler’s appetite seems to change day to day?
This is completely normal! Toddlers are naturally inconsistent eaters, as their hunger and energy needs vary throughout the day. One day they might eat a full meal, and the next, just a few bites — and that’s okay! Trusting their cues helps them learn to listen to their bodies. Here are some tips and things to remember when feeding littles:
Try This:
Keep offering a variety of foods without pressures
Keep a mental note of their eating patterns
Have a variety of healthy and age appropriate snack options available throughout the day
Don’t force your child to finish their plate
Remember:
Seasonings are your friend. Offering flavors and dips create interest in meals.
Be patient! Your child is learning and the process might take a while.
Messy eating or playing with food is okay! This is a great way to incorporate sensory needs into your child’s day.
New flavors and textures can be different or jarring for some kids so re-offer foods.
If your child LOVES blueberries one day and dislikes them the next, remember, foods can also be inconsistent. Fruits can be tart, sweet, too ripe, or too hard and this can be confusing for children.
Eat with your child to model eating habits.
All kiddos develop differently so don’t compare your child’s eating journey to another’s.
If you have specific concerns, consult a feeding specialist or your child’s Pediatrician.
Things to work on while eating:
Using utensils
Using sign language (more, all done, thank you, please, milk etc.)
Sensory exploration
Sharing
Exploring smells
