Toddler Portion Sizes

Why Getting Portion Sizes Right Reduces Fussy Eating

Are you stressed about your child’s fussy eating? One key issue is that parents often put too much food on children's plates and then worry that they are not eating enough when it isn't all consumed. According to a survey by the Infant and Toddler Forum, 79% of parents are piling the plates too high. I was in that number, and it caused a lot of unnecessary stress.

An example of a main meal might include:

1/4 of a tomato, 1/2 tablespoon of peas, 2 potato wedges, 1/2 a boiled egg, & 2 tablespoons of rice pudding.

It's too late for me to review toddler portion sizes, but it might be just the thing you need to make meal times more joyful! Take a look at the infant and toddler forum information:

It is also important to note that children's appetites fluctuate like ours. One morning, they might wake up and eat two breakfasts; the next day, they take two spoons and feel satisfied. To reduce stress, look at food intake over a week rather than daily.

Several factors influence your child's appetite, including exercise, natural metabolism, health, and emotional state. While it's tempting to try to control their intake, guiding them in listening to their body's cues is more beneficial. This approach can foster a healthier relationship with food.

If you are struggling with fussy eating, you can download the top tips from Raising Adventurous Eaters - my collaboration with Josephine Fernando, founder of Diddy Diners, a nutritional coach and qualified educator. We also have a simple, step-by-step audio guide that you can listen to on your commute, while walking the dog, or waiting for your child’s activities to end.