What to Feed a Picky Toddler
(471 Words)
If you have a toddler that is a picky eater, then you are far from alone. Different toddlers will accept different things, and the following are some foods with which you may have luck. You may want to try one food at a time so as not to overwhelm them.
Fruit
Fruit is an excellent food for toddlers. Many kids will eat it because it is so sweet even if they are picky eaters. Of course it is very healthy as well. You can feed him or her bananas or sweet strawberries. They may like an apple. Try all different fruits to see if there is something that he or she will accept. Sometimes it is a matter of cutting it into a fun form such as apples into the shape of French fries.
Pizza
Regular pizza is not so healthy for growing toddlers, but many picky eaters will eat it. One solution is to make your own that is much healthier. You can take a whole wheat pita. Add some tomatoes, marinara or pizza sauce that is healthy. You can then add a low fat cheese. You can put it in the toaster oven or even just the microwave. This may be a delicious food that your child will eat.
Healthy cereals
If your toddler will snack, you do not want him or her snacking on potato chips and French fries. You can get some healthy cereal such as Cheerios or Kix. You will find many different types of these, which can be nutritionally healthy for your child. Alternatively you can look for healthy granola bars or veggie sticks. You can go to a health food store such as Whole Foods Market to see what is available.
Sandwiches
Some picky toddlers will be more likely to eat something if it is between two pieces of bread. You can experiment with different sandwiches.
Pasta
Many toddlers like pasta even if they do not eat a lot else. You can add some tomato sauce to get a vegetable in. Look for the whole wheat pasta for an added health benefit.
Mash it up
Some toddlers will refuse most unfamiliar food but will eat almost anything that is mashed up. They may fondly remember baby food and want it again. There is nothing wrong with mashing up healthy food with a fork or in your blender. If this is how your toddler can get the nutrients he or she needs, then go for it. You can also make smoothies with these items.
There are many food items that your picky toddler might enjoy. Do not just assume they will not like it but give it a try. Sometimes it is about adding a little something such as a dip for vegetables. Be creative to get your picky toddler to eat better.
Sources:
http://www.askdrsears.com/html/3/t030800.asp