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Feeding Tips for Toddlers

Portions, Serving Sizes, and More!

It may be hard to believe, but your baby is now a toddler! Toddlers enjoy feeding themselves and eating meals and snacks at the table with others. Yes, it can get messy, but this is your toddler's chance to explore new foods and tastes.

You may notice that your toddler does not eat as much food as before. During her first year of life, she grew extremely fast. Now that growth has tapered off, she doesn't need to eat as much. However, it's still very important to provide your toddler with a variety of nutritious foods from each of the food groups.

This quick reference chart lists the food groups, recommended daily servings, and appropriate portion sizes throughout the toddler years. Your child may eat a little more or less, which is perfectly normal. The serving sizes below are only a guide.

Daily Servings & Portion Sizes Based on Age

Grains
4-6 servings		 Age
1		 Ages 2-3
 Ages 4-5
Bread 1/4 slice 1/2 slice 3/4-1 slice
Cooked cereal, rice & pasta 1/4 cup 1/3 cup
1/2 cup
Dry cereal 1/4 cup 1/2 cup 3/4-1 cup
Bagels & buns 1/4 bun 1/3 bun 1/2 bun
Dairy
4 servings
 Age
1		 Ages 2-3 Ages 4-5
Milk 1/2 cup 1/2 cup 1/2-3/4 cup
Cheese 1/3-2/3 oz 2/3-1.0 oz 1 oz
Yogurt 1/2 cup 1/2 cup 1/2-3/4 cup
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About The Author

Becky Hand
Becky is a registered and licensed dietitian with almost 20 years of experience. She teaches prenatal classes and counsels individuals, helping women eat right and stay fit before, during and after their pregnancies.		 Becky Hand

Member Comments

ERIN_POSCH
thanks for sharing Report