Once a child reaches their toddler years, ages 1 to 3, feeding can become a challenge. Developmental changes are occurring at this age. Toddlers are trying to gain independence and control and meals are part of that pattern. Keep in mind that good sense as well as planning will make this transition a smooth one.

Toddlers are making the change from the diet they had as an infant to one more like your own. Now is the time to introduce new flavors and textures as taste preferences are established at this age. Make choices that are packed with nutrients and limit sweets and empty calories.

Toddlers will explore with self-feeding, first with fingers then utensils. Offer your child plenty of opportunity to experiment. Help out when your child becomes frustrated, but once skills are mastered, step away and let them take over.

To build strong bones, milk is an important part of the diet. It provides Vitamin D and calcium. Before age 2, a child should drink whole milk to gain the benefits they need. After age 2, you may begin to switch to lower fat milk. Around 12 to 18 months, it is a good idea to transition to a cup. Gradually cut out bottles, dont do it all at once.

Watch closely for iron deficiencies after your child reaches 1 year. Iron deficiency can affect mental, physical and behavioral development. To help prevent this, limit milk intake to 16 to 24 full ounces per day, increase iron-rich foods and continue serving iron-rich cereal.

To ensure optimum nutrition, you should avoid large amounts of sweet desserts, soft drinks, sugar-coated cereals, candy and chips. These item shave little, if any, nutritional value. Also be wary of foods that present a choking hazard such as peanuts, whole grapes, popcorn, tough meats and hard candy.

There are also steps which will help mealtime be an enjoyable time for you and your toddler. It neednt become a war zone. Dont battle your child over food and meals. Be flexible when it comes to your childs acceptance of certain foods. Do not use dessert as a reward. This only sets up a child for unhealthy eating habits later. Ensure the food is easy for your toddler to eat. Cut into bite sized pieces, make sure some foods are soft and moist, use child-sized feeding utensils. Seat your child in a secure chair. At first, avoid foods that are difficult to chew slowly adding them in as your child is ready. And always supervise your child while they are eating!

Knowledge and common sense go a long way in making this transformation easier on you and your toddler. Make mealtimes enjoyable. Use them as quality time.