Parents often tell me that their toddler doesn't eat anything, yet most of those toddlers are growing and developing fine. First step is to check with your pediatrician and make sure that your daughter is truly gaining weight and growing appropriately. Here are a few reasons why she may not be eating what you think she should:
Empty calories fill the tank: It may be that she is filling up on juice, crackers or other high calorie, unhealthy foods. Make a list of everything she eats and drinks. Don't forget to include what she gets at day care or from other caregivers. You may discover that the 3 mini pretzels she snacks on before you pick her up fill her up so she's not hungry for dinner.
Small portions: A toddler's portion size is about 1/4 to 1/3 of an adult's portion size -- about the size of the palm of her hand -- so she may actually be eating enough, even though it just doesn't seem like a lot to you.
She says "no": She may be asserting her independence. You can bring a child to the table, but you can't make them eat. If you try to force it, that's one battle that you won't win. Offer a few healthy options and if she doesn't eat, put it away and offer it later when she's hungry.
Tips to make sure that her few bird-size bites are nutritious.
- Switch to non-fat milk since whole or reduced-fat milk is filling and she doesn't need the extra fat
- Cut out the juice and offer water instead
- Use snack time as you would mealtime and serve healthy options
- Offer veggies first, then lean protein, then grains
Tanya Remer Altmann
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I'd say try baby vegetables too, like cherry tomatoes. Toddlers usually like using their fingers rather than a fork so food cut small or in funny shapes makes it easier and funnier for them to eat