How to Make Mealtime Successful for Toddlers

If you work with toddlers in a daycare setting, you know that mealtime can one of the hardest parts of the day. Once most children turn a year old, they become less dependent on bottles and baby food, and they are now more interested in table food. It becomes challenging to ensure proper nutrition during these years, while still respecting their need for independence. Here are some tips to consider while feeding your toddlers.

Food service is going to be challenging, but you need to remember that at this age, toddlers are asserting their independence and they want to do things for themselves. They no longer want somebody to feed them. Don't get mad when your child refuses the food you try to feed them, it's probably because they want to feed themselves.

Give kids choices about foods. At this age, choices should be simple. For example, you could ask them what they want for snack, by showing them a box of Goldfish, or a package of graham crackers. Ask "Would you like Goldfish or graham crackers?" and most of the time, the child will be able to point or say what they'd like. Giving children choices allows them to build their self-help skills, and feel good about themselves.

Make sure you communicate with the families about children's eating habits, likes and dislikes. The way you handle mealtimes at your center may be completely different than mealtimes at home. Sharing this information can help you make mealtime go a little smoother for the child.

Allow your children to be as independent as possible. Instead of using high chairs, you can use low chairs with small tables. This allows everybody to eat together side by side, just like adults do. Also, be sure to use child sized dishes and utensils.

Toddlers are not the most patient individuals, so you should try to minimize waiting time when possible. Don't bring the kids to the table until lunch arrives and is being served.

Let the kids be part of the food service. You can let them pass out napkins or cups, or put a spoon by everybody's plate. You will still need to handle most foods, but toddlers can choose foods like a piece of bread or some chicken nuggets from the dish.

Expect imperfection! At times it's going to be frustrating, but don't make it seem like it's the child's fault. Toddlers are still working on their self-help skills, so spills are going to happen and food is going to get everywhere. Don't forget extra t-shirts on spaghetti day!

Be sure to include healthy habits as part of the mealtime routine. You should be modeling healthy habits as well. Toddlers look up to you as their caregiver, and they will imitate you. If you wash your hands before eating, the kids will know to do the same. Discourage unhealthy habits, like sharing utensils and drinking from others' cups.

Don't expect the kids to eat a lot of food everyday. If one day, a child eats 2 helpings of vegetables, but they don't eat any vegetables the next day, don't be surprised. Toddlers' appetites can vary from day to day. You should be concerned though, if a child continuously refuses to eat.

Support healthy attitudes about food by serving small portions and offering seconds. Encourage children to eat until they are full, and allow them to stop when they are full. Never require a child to eat any specific food, or to "clean their plate".

You should never use food as a reward or punishment. Don't tell the kids they are going to get a cookie if they clean up their mess, and don't force a child to eat something because they were misbehaving. Also, never withhold a meal from a child as a form of punishment.

Eat "family style" meals with the children. Sit with them, do not stand or move around the eating area while the children are eating. Engage in conversation with the kids as well.

Slow down! Allow children to eat at their own paces, and don't rush the meal. Plan an activity that those who finish quickly can go to.

Toddlers may be reluctant to try new foods. Encourage them to try new foods and model tasting new foods. Sometimes when they see other children eating their green beans, they will want to try them too. Never force or require a child to taste everything.

Remember, mealtimes are a social occasion. In order to have mealtime success, you must maintain a sense of humor, have a positive attitude and be flexible. They are only toddlers after all!