How can I get my fussy toddler to eat

Q.� How can I get my fussy toddler to eat

�

A.� When children are over one, they begin to assert their own character and their independence stretches to meal times. They like to feed themselves, even though they might not be that good with a spoon and fork, and they most definitely know what they like and dislike. Once they're over one and perhaps walking, toddlers lose interest in food and would much rather be running around with their toys.

�

Q.� How can I persuade him to eat

A.� He will eat when he is hungry and the more fuss you make, the more he will refuse his food. Be patient, and eventually he grow out of this phase.

�

Q.� How do I know if he is getting enough food

A.� Experts say toddlers can to thrive on quite a small amount of food, especially if they are still drinking milk at bedtime. Some days they will eat everything put in front of them, and others they nibble tiny amounts.

�

Q.� What should I do if he doesn't eat meat

A. Children at a very young age quite often will not touch meat or fish, but there are other good sources of protein, including eggs, cheese, dairy products, or even peanut butter spread on a bit of toast.� Think good presentation when it comes to meal times - colour is very important and if you can choose contrasting colours, it will keep your child interested. Arrange the food in a pattern on a plate, put the food into shapes of animals, letters of numbers, and don't overload his plate. Encourage him once he has finished and he can always ask for more if he wants it.

�

Q.� Should we eat together

A.� Evidence shows eating as a family is very important. Take the family to a restaurant, and it might perk up his interest in food once he sees everyone around him tucking in. Find a child who is a good eater, and encourage them to eat together at teatime.

�

Q.� What should his diet include

A.� A balanced diet should include lots of vegetables, which can be served as a main meal. Canned tuna, salmon, chicken and nuts, beans or pulses should be added to their diet. Despite the recent food scares and the effect of the BSE crisis and foot-and-mouth problems recently, red meat contains iron and zinc and is very nutritious if served with green peas or cabbage. Pasta is a great favourite with a really simple tomato sauce and babies and toddlers love garlic in the sauce or on bread. Fresh fruit is vital - chop apples, grapes and banana into easy pieces and puree fruits for dessert with custard, jelly or ice cream.

�

Q.� What about in-between meals

A.� Not all children are programmed into eating three main meals; some like to eat little and often and it's important to give them healthy alternatives like fruit, raw vegetables, brown rolls with jam or peanut butter, chunks of cheese, or dried fruit, like raisins.� Always serve low-sugar drinks, milk or plain water.

�

Q.� What foods should toddlers avoid

A.� Government health experts say as a rule toddlers should avoid shellfish, liver and lots�of processed foods like sausages. Nut shouldn't be given to young children until they are five because of the risk of a peanut allergy, and children should drink full-fat cow's milk until they are at least two.

�

For more food and drink questions, click here

�

By Katharine MacColl