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PLAYING: Family Meals for Toddlers

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Family Meals for Toddlers

Wondering how you can enjoy family meals for toddlers? Here are some family meal ideas with toddlers to keep dinnertime a drama-free zone.

2 mins to read Nov 10, 2020
  • Have the whole family eat at a table, at the same times every day, as much as possible. Read about the benefits of family meals here.
  • Even if your baby has already eaten, sit him at the table, and if he’s showing signs of hunger, offer a selection of finger foods to choose from.
  • Make sure your toddler is sitting up comfortably and is included in the meal.
  • Toddlers are little copycats and you are their idol, so make sure they can see you clearly so you can show them how it’s done.
  • Give them smaller portions of what you’re eating on unbreakable plates.
  • Ignore silly behavior (throwing food around, shouting, banging on the table).
  • Praise good behavior (eating, enjoying, trying to use spoon and fork).
  • Talk to them about the meal, its taste, colors, smells, and textures.
  • Don’t focus all your attention on them—it’s a family meal after all.
  • Don’t worry if they don’t clear their plate.
  • Do offer a variety of healthy foods, for baby and the whole family.
  • Don’t offer alternatives if they refuse what’s on the table.
  • Don’t have unhealthy snacks, sugary drinks or sweets on the table.
  • Don’t switch on the TV or have phones or screens during mealtimes.
  • If eating out, try avoiding peak times in case your mini-food critic acts up.
  • Make sure the restaurant is child-friendly with highchairs, child-sized meals, and child-friendly plates and cutlery.
  • If they have a tantrum in a restaurant or café try taking them outside or to a quiet corner for a moment. They could just be overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and smells of a busy environment.

 

SOURCES:

https://www.smababy.co.uk/toddler/toddler-family-meals/

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