If you've ever been around toddlers, chances are you're familiar with the "toddler diet" - otherwise known as chicken nuggets, hot dogs, and French fries. There are ways to help your toddler expand his menu. Try using cookie cutters to cut cheese and sandwiches into fun shapes, make pancake "faces" with banana slices for eyes, and blueberries for the nose and mouth. Your picky toddler is more likely to eat if they're hungry at mealtime - don't allow them to fill up on juice or snacks between meals.

Another way to make sure your toddler is getting enough nutritious food is to be creative when preparing meals. Adding some thawed frozen spinach into tomato sauce, placing veggies on top of a slice of pizza, or adding shredded zucchini to apple muffins are great ways to sneak healthy food into your child.

Toddlers are prone to food jags - sometimes they'll go weeks or months eating the same food day after day. If your toddler is gaining weight well, there's probably nothing to worry about. What's most important is that you not turn it into a battle - if your toddler realizes that they can use food as a method of control, you've lost the war. Consult with your pediatrician if you're concerned - he may suggest adding a multivitamin to your child's diet.

As your child gets older, it can still be a struggle to make sure he or she is eating right. Make an effort to have a family mealtime - not only does it give you an opportunity to catch up with your kids; it also helps you control the menu. Make sure that there is always a healthy selection of ready-made snacks available, such as fruits and veggies with dip. Offer your kids juice or water and limit sugary drinks like soda and drink mixes.

It's important that the parent set a good example. Practice what you preach and realize that your kids will take their cues from you. Making choices like eating whole grains, avoiding fried foods, and eating more fruits and veggies will send the right message and increase the chances that your child will adopt a healthy lifestyle later on in their lives.

Next article: Tips For Parenting A Toddler

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