Feeding a toddler or preschooler healthy meals and snacks can be a challenge.

 

Young children love to test their individuality, even at the table. There may be days when your child is interested in anything but food, and can be a picky eater.   Your child may be eating better than you think. Children's stomachs do not need much food to feel full. Look at what your child has eaten over the whole day, not just at lunch or dinner. Some children eat more food earlier in the day. Every child is different and that is okay. Meals are a time when you and your child can relax and learn about food as well as each other.

You decide:

• What foods to offer
• When to offer meals and snacks
• Where your child will eat

Trust your child to decide:

• Which foods to eat
• How much to eat

Get answers to some of the common concerns and question parents have when it comes to feeding their children:

 

1.       How do I know how much food my child needs?

2.       Is it okay to pressure my child to eat or to use food as a reward?

3.       How do I get my child to eat new foods?

4.       I am worried that my child is overweight. What should I do?

5.       Are family meals important?

 

If you and your child struggle with feeding repeatedly, call EatRight Ontario at 1-877-510-5102 to speak to a registered dietitian at no cost.

 

External Links:

 

NutriSTEP®: A nutrition risk-screening questionnaire, in which parents of 3-5 year olds answer questions about their child's eating habits

Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide: A guide for providing Canadians age 2 and over with a healthy pattern of eating

Canadian Paediatric Society: A website on child and youth health

Ellyn Satter Associates: A website with information for professionals and parents about eating and feeding

 

---