Development
Your child has become a toddler. Toddlers speak, play simple make-believe games and show interest in other kids. They take pride in their many new accomplishments, and want your approval as much as it might seem otherwise.
Safety
Chasing after toddlers to prevent accidents is a great way for parents to catch up on the workouts they may have missed in the previous 24 months. Eventually they discover their own balance between "hovering" and "watchful encouragement."
Feeding skills
You develop a thick skin, putting foods in front of your toddler only to have them refused over and over again. Parents of toddlers eventually see their persistence pay off. When kids have been given a variety of food options over time eventually they may make choices that will surprise you.
Choking hazards
Toddlers aren't quite past the age where choking is still a concern, so the same cautions apply as with previous ages. Parents should avoid:
- Grapes, berries or raisins
- Nuts
- Hot dogs or luncheon meats
- Potato chips and popcorn
- Candy and gum
- Raw or undercooked vegetables
- Peanut butter on a spoon
Sample menu plan
Breakfast
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 banana
- 1/2 cup whole grain oat cereal, like Cheerios® cereal
- 1/2 slice toast
- 1 tsp. butter or margarine
Mid a.m.
- 3 oz. vitamin C-rich juice
Lunch
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 peanut butter and jelly sandwich
- 2 tbsp. carrots, cooked and diced (raw sticks for older children)
Mid p.m.
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup cereal
Dinner
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 oz. meat loaf
- 2 to 3 tbsp. rice
- 2 tbsp. green peas
- 1 to 2 tsp. butter or margarine
- 1/4 orange (sections for younger children)