(NITS) The Growing Needs of a Toddler Lesson

The Growing Needs of a Toddler Lesson 

 

Ages 1-2 Years Old

The toddler stage (a child in the second stage of life, ages 1-2 years old) can be fun, exciting, and demanding. Many children have grown several teeth by this point. They are transitioning from baby food to table food (food in its natural state that has not been modified by cutting or mashing). Many of these children are learning how to use eating utensils such as forks and spoons. They are also learning how to pinch and grab food off of a plate with their fingers. Their tastes are changing and they may want to try new foods.

It is a good idea to have your toddler try new textures and types of food. Also, remember that since their bellies are small, it is important to give them the most nutritious item at each meal. Children will stop eating when they are no longer hungry, so there is not a scientific amount of food that should be given at each meal. Offer 3 meals a day with a couple of snacks in between.

Milk is an important part of a toddler's diet. With a calorie demand of about 1000-1400 calories a day, it is vital that milk is served to help meet this requirement. Many infants will transition off of breast milk or formula to cow, almond, rice, or soy milk. It is recommended that from ages 1-2 years old, that children drink whole milk.   After age 2, a little fat restriction is recommended because the child will start developing his/her cholesterol and fat stores.

This chart below is a good sample of what a feeding schedule looks like for one day in the life of a toddler. Of course there may be variations, but this chart is a good example of the amount of food a toddler eats.

 

Food Group	Daily Amount for 2-Year-Olds	Daily Amount for 3-Year-Olds	Help With Servings
Grains	3 ounces, half from whole-grain sources	4-5 ounces, half from whole-grain sources	One ounce equals: 1 slice of bread, 1 cup of ready-to-eat cereal, or ½ cup of cooked rice, cooked pasta, or cooked cereal.
Vegetables	1 cup	1½ cups	Use measuring cups to check amounts. Serve veggies that are soft, cut in small pieces, and well-cooked to prevent choking.
Fruits	1 cup	1 cup	Use measuring cups to check amounts. An 8- to 9-inch banana equals 1 cup.
Milk	2 cups	2 cups	One cup equals: 1 cup of milk or yogurt, 1½ ounces of natural cheese, or 2 ounces of processed cheese.
Meat & Beans	2 ounces	3-4 ounces	One ounce equals: 1 ounce of meat, poultry or fish, ¼ cup cooked dry beans, or 1 egg.

 

Choking Hazards

It is important for parents to prepare food for children appropriately. This means that for toddlers, food must be cut into very small pieces. This will lower the risk of a child choking (the obstruction of air from the airway to the lungs) from food. Also, keep dangerous size food in an area where a toddler cannot reach it. Keeping safety locks on cabinets will also help to protect food in pantries and cupboards.

 

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