As children move from a purely milk diet, whether this is breast or formula, they are growing very quickly and are usually very active, so they need plenty of energy and nutrients.Between the ages of 2 to 5 years children should be gradually moving to eating with the family, and this means eating the same foods as the family.
Every day toddlers should have the following sorts of foods.
Iron is found in many vegetables and pulses such as beans lentils and chickpeas, in dried fruit such as apricots, raisins and sultanas and in some breakfast cereals.
Absorbing iron from vegetable sources is more difficult than absorbing iron from meat so ensure your toddler has some foods containing iron every day. A food or drink which is high in vitamin C given at the same time as vegetables or iron containing foods will help make the absorption of iron easier.
Avoid giving young children tea or coffee especially at meal times as this reduces iron absorption.
Semi skimmed milk can be given from 2 years of age but fully skimmed milk is unsuitable for children under 5 years of age.
Vitamin drops are a useful addition to the diet of under 5's as this ensures, despite any fussy food behaviour, that the child gets enough of the important protective vitamins to encourage bone growth and immune system support.
Small portions on small plates are less daunting. Children can always ask for more but can be discouraged if they are expected to eat large amounts. Plan for three main meals per day and two snacks.
If you want to know more about toddler diet, if you need support with your toddlers eating habits,
Contact us at;-info@dreamangus.com
Every day toddlers should have the following sorts of foods.
- Milk and dairy foods which will provide protein, vitamins, minerals and calories.
- Meat, fish, eggs, peas,beans, lentils and tofu. Boys need up to 4 portions of oily fish per week, mackerel,sardines, or salmon. Girls should have no more than 2 portions of oily fish per week.
- Bread, pasta, rice, breakfast cereals, potatoes, sweet potatoes,which will provide fibre as well as calories, vitamins and minerals.
- Fruit and vegetables for vitamin C and other protective vitamins.
- A vitamin D supplement for healthy bone and good immune response.
Iron is found in many vegetables and pulses such as beans lentils and chickpeas, in dried fruit such as apricots, raisins and sultanas and in some breakfast cereals.
Absorbing iron from vegetable sources is more difficult than absorbing iron from meat so ensure your toddler has some foods containing iron every day. A food or drink which is high in vitamin C given at the same time as vegetables or iron containing foods will help make the absorption of iron easier.
Avoid giving young children tea or coffee especially at meal times as this reduces iron absorption.
Semi skimmed milk can be given from 2 years of age but fully skimmed milk is unsuitable for children under 5 years of age.
Vitamin drops are a useful addition to the diet of under 5's as this ensures, despite any fussy food behaviour, that the child gets enough of the important protective vitamins to encourage bone growth and immune system support.
Small portions on small plates are less daunting. Children can always ask for more but can be discouraged if they are expected to eat large amounts. Plan for three main meals per day and two snacks.
If you want to know more about toddler diet, if you need support with your toddlers eating habits,
Contact us at;-info@dreamangus.com
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