You may feel that because your toddler is moving so much more, she needs more food to provide extra fuel, but actually she'll start to eat less. Once her first birthday passes, your tiny tot's growth slows down, so she needs less food than what you were providing in those important first 12 months. Besides, your little one has way too much going on now to think about eating. Her appetite, how much she wants to eat, and what she wants to eat will vary every day - but don't worry, it's completely normal. Today it seems like she hasn't had more than a piece of toast, but tomorrow you'll feel like you're feeding her all day long. It's best to look at your child's variety and intake over an entire week to see if she's getting everything she needs.

How much food does your little one need?

Not as much as you think. In fact, you'll probably be surprised at how little your toddler needs. Little tummies between 1-2 years old need only about ½ of what adults generally need, except for milk products. Because her appetite will vary from day to day, it's best to offer smaller portions, and have her ask for more. Don't worry, she'll let you know if she's still hungry, and when enough is enough. Plus, by asking for food when she's hungry, she'll start learning those cues that will help her establish healthy eating habits.

	Some eating habits to expect from your toddler as she grows:
	12–18 months	18 months – 2 years
	Will eat a variety of foods Likes eating with hands Drinks from a cup Uses spoon and fork awkwardly Turns spoon in mouth Wants foods others are eating Tries different behaviours to see how you will react (like throwing or spitting food)	Appetite decreases Likes eating with hands Likes routines, rituals become important Uses spoon and fork with more skill Likes trying foods with different textures Will display food likes and dislikes

How often do toddlers need to eat?

Because of her tiny tummy (about the size of her fist), 3 meals a day may not be the best way to get food into your little one - she can't eat very much food at one time. Try to serve 2-3 healthy snacks during the day between meals. This will keep your child's energy levels up and sugar levels constant all day - providing her with the fuel she needs to learn those new toddler skills. Just make sure you're not serving snacks too close to mealtime; 2 hours between mini-meals will make sure your tot is hungry for the next one.

Keep these ideas in mind when offering healthy snacks during the day:

• Provide snacks when you hear rumbling tummies: make sure your toddler is hungry or thirsty, not just looking for entertainment.
  
  
• Don't overdo the liquids: although milk and some juices are nutritious, serve them in small portions — and with solid foods; drinks should never replace food.
  
  
• Don't offer drinks that are not nutritious; fruit crystals, pop, coffee or tea should not be given to toddlers.

Swapping a cup for a bottle at mealtimes Your little one's independence has grown — she's nearly walking, feeding herself, pulling up her own pants, she's definitely ready for a big-kid cup. Introducing a cup should be done slowly; start with a "sippy" cup that has a lid, a spout, maybe even handles for tiny fingers to grab on. Start with one meal at a time, and slowly replace the bottle with a cup at more meals as your toddler gets the hang of it. If you're having some trouble swapping the cup for the bottle, dilute the milk in the bottle, so the milk in the cup will taste better. Definitely expect spills — which is why lids are great for you too. Introducing new foods Now that your little one is eating solid foods, you can start introducing some new ones for more variety. The key is to introduce one new food at a time. And while you may think this sounds obvious, serve new foods when your child is hungry, but happy. She'll be more likely to give it a try. Let her smell and touch it, and at least take one bite, but don't force it if she's not interested because you can always try again later. Did you know? It may take up to 10 tries before a toddler likes a new food — so be patient, and keep at it.

Keeping your cool

Picky eaters at this age are not uncommon. Everything is so new that being choosey is part of the package. But if you've tried to introduce new foods and your toddler didn't bite, be careful not to show your disappointment. Giving extra attention to when they're not eating reinforces that unwanted behaviour and may lead to even greater resistance next time.

What about vitamins or supplements?

Toddlers absolutely do not need vitamins or mineral pills. Providing a well balanced, healthy diet for your little one is the best way to ensure that she'll get the 50 or so nutrients needed for healthy growth and development. Plus, children can overdose on vitamin pills if they take too many. Visit Canada's food guide for great ideas on healthy eating for your toddler. http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/food-guide-aliment/index_e.html

Quick tips for toddler eating

• Present new foods when she's happy and hungry
  
  
• Offer finger foods often, and in bite-size pieces.
  
  
• Introduce a new food along with familiar, preferred foods.
  
  
• Kids like simple foods, keep seasoning light.
  
  
• Make the plate interesting by serving a variety of different colours and textures.
  
  
• Don't force your child to eat anything, instead, encourage her to 'try a bite' one at a time.
  
  
• Keep food neutral, don't use it to reward or bribe your toddler.
  
  
• Enjoy family time together, make mealtime stimulating and full of conversation; keep the TV off while eating.
  
  
• Most importantly, kids learn how to eat by watching you. Sitting as a family helps make mealtimes fun and sets a great example for your growing little person.