Dealing with Picking Eating by Your Toddler

A lot of parents find themselves having a hard time getting their toddlers to eat sometimes, and it can be worrisome for many parents. A lot of the time, they have a hard time getting them to eat enough to stay healthy, and even if there are no snacks your toddler won't eat much lunch or dinner.   All of us would like our toddlers to eat healthily and finish all of their meals, but most toddlers refuse to eat all of their food when faced with it on the table. It is normal, and it is not unhealthy as long as they are growing normally. Make sure that they don't drink too many liquids like milk and juice, since this could lessen their appetite.   Toddlers are picky eaters at ages one through three gain weight slower than they did in the major growth period in their first year, so naturally they eat less. Also, since they are always moving around they sometimes can't sit down to eat so much. Snacking can be one way to get them nourished. 
When giving portions to your toddler, each meal should be around one fourth of a normal adult's portion size. If your toddler is still hungry after one serving, you can serve him a little more vegetables or healthy food. Just make sure that they do not drink more than 16 to 24 ounces of milk a day. For example, you can give them portions like a half slice of bread, half an egg or one-third cup of yogurt.   Since toddlers are picky about food, their preferences will change almost as much as their mood does. Some will choose to eat one kind of fruit or food everyday for a week, or even longer. Sometimes they will eat a lot one day and barely anything the next day. Do not worry about this habit; as long as their week is balanced then they are eating healthily.   Always make sure that the foods your child eats are healthy and natural. Processed foods can be unhealthy, so try to stay away from them. They are alright in moderation, but they should not become a habit. If you think your child needs supplements or vitamins, talk to your pediatrician first. Most toddlers do not need vitamins, so there is no need to give them.   If you do not know what your toddler wants for the day, then you can give him a few choices. Put in a few slices of bananas, apples, a bit of avocado, some broccoli, cereals, whatever you think your toddler will like, and serve it to him. The extras can be saved for later, since your toddler will be active the whole day and will need the nutrition.   Toddlers also find dipping foods fun as well. You can provide your toddler with veggies and fruits with a variety of dips. For example cottage cheese, fondue, cream cheese, or different jams and honey are fun and delicious dips.  Dips can also be used for toppings on foods that your toddler doesn't like, which will make them easier to eat. 
After your toddler's second or third year, he will start to settle down on what he wants to eat and how much he needs. So just bear with it and do your best to keep your child healthy and it will be over before you know it.