What Toddlers Need to Eat
Toddlers (ages 1-2) need different kinds of food to grow strong and healthy. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), they should eat foods from all these groups every day:
Fruits and Vegetables
- Give 5-6 small servings each day
- Try different colors like red apples, green peas, and orange carrots
- Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits are all good choices
Grains
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says toddlers should eat 6 servings of grains daily, like:
- Bread
- Cereal
- Rice
- Pasta
- Try to make half of these whole grains!
Protein Foods
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) says toddlers need 2-3 servings of protein each day:
- Meat
- Chicken
- Fish
- Eggs
- Beans
- Tofu
Dairy
According to the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), toddlers need 2-3 servings of dairy every day:
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Cheese
- Or other calcium-rich foods if your child can’t have dairy
How Much Should Toddlers Eat?
The AAP tells us that toddler portions are much smaller than grown-up portions. A toddler serving is about:
- 1 tablespoon of food per year of age
- 2-3 small meals and 2-3 snacks each day
- Small portions they can finish
Making Meals Fun and Safe
The CDC gives these tips to make eating safe and fun:
- Cut food into small pieces (no bigger than ½ inch)
- Always watch your toddler while they eat
- Have them sit at a table to eat
- Make meals colorful
- Let them try feeding themselves
- Eat together as a family when you can
Foods to Be Careful With
The AAP says to watch out for these foods that can cause choking:
- Whole grapes (cut them in half)
- Hot dogs (cut lengthwise and in small pieces)
- Hard candies
- Nuts
- Raw carrots
- Popcorn
Healthy Drink Choices
According to the AAP and CDC:
- Water is the best drink
- Whole milk until age 2 (about 16-24 ounces per day)
- No sugary drinks like soda or fruit punch
- Limit juice to 4 ounces or less per day
Tips for Picky Eaters
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggests:
- Let them try new foods many times
- Make food look fun
- Let them help pick fruits and vegetables
- Don’t force them to eat
- Be patient – picky eating is normal!
Important Things to Remember
- Every child is different and may eat different amounts each day
- Toddlers know when they’re hungry and full
- Some days they eat more, some days less
- Regular check-ups with your doctor help make sure they’re growing well
Where to Learn More
For the most up-to-date information, check these trusted sources:
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): www.aap.org
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC): www.cdc.gov
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: www.eatright.org
- USDA: www.usda.gov
Remember: This guide gives general information. Talk to your child’s doctor about what’s best for your toddler, especially if they have allergies or special needs.
References
- American Academy of Pediatrics: “Feeding & Nutrition Tips: Your 1-Year-Old”
- CDC: “Child Development: Toddlers (1-2 years)”
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: “Nutrition for Toddlers”
- USDA: “Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025”
