Parenting Your 1-Year-Old Toddler: Week 22
Is your little one staging a full-on protest at mealtime? Welcome to the world of picky eaters! After spending 30 minutes preparing a delicious lunch of penne pasta with tender steamed broccoli, crispy bacon bits, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, you might find yourself watching in disbelief as your toddler flings the food onto the floor for your dog, Max, to devour. Suddenly, that box of mac-and-cheese starts to look very appealing!
One effective strategy to combat picky eating is to limit snacking. Keep those snacks tucked away, only bringing them out as a reward for good behavior. While many parents may chuckle at the idea of Bento Box meal prep, there’s something to be said for discovering nutritious options your child will actually eat—even if it means serving the same dish multiple times a day.
Establishing a consistent mealtime routine can also help reduce picky eating habits. Sure, your toddler may engage in solo food battles until they figure out that forks are meant for eating, not sword fighting. And yes, food might become a canvas for body paint or ammunition, but you’re laying the groundwork for healthy eating habits.
Happy Momma Tip: Sometimes, it’s best to take a step back and let your child take the lead during dinner. Allow them to pick what’s on the menu occasionally, even if it means serving up something unconventional like hot dogs and banana pudding! For more tips on navigating toddler mealtime challenges, check out our other post on intracervicalinsemination.com.
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In summary, navigating mealtime with a picky toddler can be challenging, but with a few strategies in place—like limiting snacks and establishing a routine—you can encourage healthier eating habits. Remember to be flexible and let your child have a say in their meals every now and then!