A balanced feeding schedule for your toddler ensures they grow and develop well. But, it can be tough for parents to stick to it, especially with picky eating and tantrums getting in the way!

We’ve rounded up some useful advice and tips to help transition your little one from baby food to table food. This can be a tough journey but we’re by your side to make sure your toddler enjoys a consistent eating routine that’s comfortable for them and you.

• A well-balanced feeding schedule is essential for toddlers aged 1 to 3 years-old to support optimal growth and development.
• Nutrient-dense meals and snacks should be provided at regular intervals to meet the nutritional needs of your toddler
• Age-appropriate portion sizes are crucial in ensuring that your toddler receives the right amount of nutrients without overfeeding.
• Incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense snacks will keep your toddler full between meals and also promotes healthy eating habits.
• Establishing a consistent mealtime routine fosters a positive relationship with food and encourages family bonding.

Start with soft foods like cooked veggies, ripe fruits, and meats. As your toddler gets used to these, you can introduce chopped foods. Try different flavours to make mealtime exciting.

Make sure you try one new food at a time to watch for allergies and let your toddler use their hands to eat as this helps with fine motor skills and self-feeding. Be patient too as it might take a few tries for your little one to like a new food.

When your toddler can handle solid foods, it’s time for table food. Start by mixing pureed foods with more textured ones. Cut food into small pieces to avoid choking and let them use utensils. Just be ready for some mess! It’s also important to give your toddler foods from all groups for a balanced diet.

Here’s a table with foods suitable for 12 month-olds:

Toddlers grow fast and need the right food to help their growth and brain development. 

Different nutrients help your little one’s growth…

• Protein: Helps your toddler’s muscles grow and keeps their immune system strong.
• Carbohydrates: Gives your toddler energy and helps their brain grow.
• Healthy fats: Important for brain and hormone health, and for vitamin absorption.
• Vitamins and minerals: Keeps your toddler’s bones strong, blood healthy, and their immune system strong.

A balanced diet for your toddler should include foods from all groups…

• Fruits and vegetables: Full of vitamins and fibre.
• Whole grains: Good for energy and fibre.
• Lean proteins: Important for growth, found in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy.
• Healthy fats: Like avocado, nuts, and olive oil, in small amounts.

Toddlers have tiny stomachs and they need the right amount of food so that they aren’t left hungry or too full. It is also important to remember that every child is different. Let your toddler eat until they’re full, but don’t force them – it is important to listen to their cues.

Drinking enough water is also important. Offer your toddler water regularly and do not give your little one any sugary drinks. Milk and dairy products can also help with hydration and provide important nutrients.

Need some guidance on when and what to feed your little one? Here’s a sample feeding schedule to help plan your toddler’s meals and snacks:

It’s also important to promote healthy eating habits…

• Eat meals together as a family whenever possible
• Set a consistent schedule for meals and snacks
• Involve your toddler in meal preparation and grocery shopping
• Offer a variety of foods and textures to prevent picky eating
• Avoid distractions like TV or electronic devices during mealtimes

You might face some hurdles when feeding your toddler. Issues like picky eating, food allergies, and tantrums can make mealtimes tough. However, there are ways to overcome these problems.

Picky eating habits

• Many toddlers are picky about what they eat. This can be hard when you want your toddler to eat well. Start by introducing new foods slowly, alongside foods your little one already likes. Try to offer different colours, textures, and tastes to keep things exciting and remember, it might take a few tries for your toddler to try something new.

Food allergies and intolerances

• Some toddlers may have food allergies or intolerances. These can make them feel sick or even cause serious reactions. If you think your toddler has an allergy, see a doctor or allergist. When trying new foods, introduce them one at a time to watch for any bad reactions. If your little one has an allergy, work with a doctor to find safe, healthy foods.

Mealtime tantrums and refusal to eat

• Your toddler might want to show they’re independent which can lead to tantrums or not wanting to eat. To help make mealtime a calm and happy place, stick to a routine for meals and snacks and let your toddler choose some of their food, but not all. If they throw a tantrum, stay calm and don’t fight back and praise your  little one when they eat well. It’s also important to show your toddler good eating habits yourself.