- Have the whole family eat at a table as much as possible. Read about the benefits of family meals here.
- Even if your toddler has already eaten, sit them in their highchair at the table, and if they’re showing signs of hunger, offer some of the age-appropriate options from the family table.
- Toddlers are little copycats, so make sure they can see you clearly so you can show them how it’s done.
- Give them smaller portions of what the family is eating on an unbreakable plate.
- Talk to them about the meal, its taste, colors, smells, and textures.
- Don’t focus all your attention on them—help them feel included in the discussion with the whole family.
- Trust your toddler to know their own hunger and fullness cues. 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 switch on the TV or have phones or screens during mealtimes.
- If eating out, try choosing times when your toddler will be awake and ready to eat. Some restaurants are more kid-friendly than others.
- Make sure the restaurant is kid-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.
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