Mealtimes

Scheduling mealtimes provides a healthy routine. It can be a good idea to set mealtimes at home at the same time that mealtimes happen at nursery or with their carer in order to ensure your child is fed when they're hungry. This will avoid having an unhappy toddler. 

Eating at the same times each day provides reassurance and a sense of security that they have another chance to eat and can provide structure to your child’s day.

A growing toddler’s hunger can change from meal to meal, so it’s OK if they don't eat much — they won’t starve if they miss one meal. Simply and calmly ask, “Did you get enough to eat? We won’t be eating again until lunch,” then follow their lead and trust their appetite.

If you’re a busy parent and don’t always have the time to cook fresh food on the day, preparing meals beforehand and safely storing then reheating can ensure you still have the time to schedule healthy meals.

In order for children to eat healthily parents need to demonstrate healthy eating, try to stick to one family meal and avoid cooking a variety.

• Use family reward systems – including children and parents. Give rewards for healthy eating, nice manners and sitting well. This allows for positive reinforcement at meal times and getting into good habits
• Drinks - milk or water should be served at mealtimes. Water is the best thirst quencher. Sipping juice or milk in-between meals will fill their tummy and could lead to mealtime battles..
• Snacks - snacks, such as raisins, are best offered at mealtimes as they can get stuck between teeth and contribute to tooth decay. 
• Are they hungry or bored? if your child is asking for snacks throughout the day, try distraction with a fun activity - they might just be bored.

• Healthy eating schedule: toddler and pre-schooler meals
• HENRY healthy start, brighter future