Guide to family meals for toddlers
Wondering how you can enjoy family meals for toddlers? Eating together is a lovely way to bring everyone together and to teach your toddler about healthy eating. They may not always be as relaxing as you’d like though! Here are some family meal ideas with toddlers to keep dinnertime a drama-free zone.
- Have the whole family eat at a table, at the same times every day, as much as possible.
- 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.
Related articles
The how, what, when, and why of your toddler's gut immunity
3 mins to read
Discover new range of Cerelac infant cereal with No Added Sugars
Discover Cerelac infant cereals "No Added Sugars":
1 min to read
Many children are afraid of new foods, preferring to eat foods they are used to
Don’t pressure children to eat, but don’t give up if they refuse to eat their greens! Sometimes a child needs to try a new food as many as 8 times before enjoying it.
1 min to read
Early Signs Of Autism In Babies
Learn More About The Early Warning Autism Symptoms!
3 mins to read
How To Rebuild Your Child’s Gut After Antibiotics?
Ways To Repair Your Kid's Gut Health After Antibiotics
2 mins to read
The right foods for self-feeding babies
It’s important that you pay attention to the foods your baby eats on his own. They should be nutritious as well as easy to nibble on. Here’s everything you need to know.
1 min to read
How to deal with toddler tantrums
Now they’re walking and talking, your toddler’s asserting their independence more and more every day, as well as developing a strong willpower!
2 mins to read
6 Fun Activities For Toddlers
Toddler Activities: Indoor & Outdoor Games
2 mins to read
Top Allergy Triggers In Children
Watch Out For These Common Allergy Factors!
2 mins to read
How To Deal With Toddler Vomit?
Treating Vomiting In Toddlers
2 mins to read
How does baby's brain develop from birth to 3 years?
It is unbelievable watching my baby learn new things! Each day brings new progress and rapid learning. An Einstein in the making, who knows?
1 min to read
Advantages Of Home Cooking For Kids
Benefits Of Home Cooked Meals For Kids And Family
2 mins to read
Activities To Enhance Your Child’s Motor Skills
Developing Motor Skills
2 mins to read
CERELAC® is natural and nutritious
From choosing ingredients to specialized packaging, we take great care to ensure your baby’s CERELAC® is all natural and nutritious. Read the article to learn more.
1 min to read
Potty training toddlers
Wondering how to potty train or when to start potty training? Read our potty-training tips and tricks to help toddlers hit the spot.
2 mins to read
Importance Of Calcium In Your Child’s Diet
Calcium And Your Child
2 mins to read
What You Need To Know About Child Immunization
Your Guide to Infant and Child Vaccines
3 mins to read
Iron Metabolism In Infants And Children
Iron Metabolism In Early Childhood
3 mins to read
How your baby develops
Pregnancy is an exciting time, full of changes and anticipation.
2 mins to read
