Robbie R. Burns FACS Parenting and Child Development Feeding Toddlers Robbie R. Burns FACS Parenting and Child Development

One through three-year-olds like to feed themselves

Self Feeding 1 year olds select finger foods for self feeding.

2 year olds fine motor skills are improving. They can eat with a spoon and a fork They like to offer food to other family members Should be allowed to get up from the table due to short attention span

3 year olds Have a full set of primary teeth Can chew most foods Caregiver should cut meat and tough foods into small pieces

Food preferences Change from day to day The toddler likes one thing today then tomorrow something different

Do not use food as a reward or as a punishment

Food habits acquired during early years follow toddlers through adulthood

Be aware of hot spots in microwaved food Food should be stirred to prevent burning a child

Provide toddlers with food choices that are not extremely hot or cold Provide toddlers with food choices that are not extremely hot or cold. Think Safety Temperature Hot/cold

Avoid giving toddlers grapes, hot dogs, peanuts, popcorn, and hard candy to prevent choking.

Be aware of food allergies that can become evident with foods such as peanut and dairy products

1 fact for each age age 1 year old 2 year old 3 year old Toddler proportions Rewards/punishment Food allergies Choking Microwave safety Food preferences Temperature of food Food habits