Majority of Kenyan mums that are raising toddlers concur that mealtimes are the most frustrating for them. The main reason is that toddlers become very selective with their food often choosing to eat unhealthy snacks or not eat at all. Even so, it is advisable to teach them good eating habits at this time to ensure that they make healthy choices as they grow up.
Some of the simple ways to make sure your toddler develops eating habits that will contribute to a healthier lifestyle in the future include:
Preparation of healthy meals – Ensure that your toddler’s meal encompasses a balanced diet that has the basic carbohydrates, proteins and vitamins. The meal can be as simple as green vegetables, ugali or rice and eggs which has all the nutrients needed for a growing toddler. For snacks, you can offer fruits such as bananas, watermelon or those readily available in season.
Regularly offer new foods – For toddlers to expand their liking for a variety of meals, it is advisable to introduce new foods. If possible make the presentation colourful and attractive using vegetables like carrots, peas, and butternut so that they are encouraged to sample the meal. At first, they may not like them but over time they will grow to accept the food as part of their diet.
Eat meals together – It is easier for a toddler to develop healthy eating habits when they see the rest of the family doing the same. Make plans to eat together as a family as often as possible and serve nutritious food as a way of encouraging them to eat healthy food.
