- Stick to regular mealtimes. Routine is reassuring for young children.
- Keep servings small and offer more later—large portions can be overwhelming.
- Use colors and shapes to make the food fun and attractive.
- Try to make mealtimes fun by involving your toddler with meal preparation or chatting with them about the colors and textures of the food.
- Be positive. Praise your toddler when they’re eating well, don’t criticize or punish when not.
- Offer new tastes gradually. One at a time and in small amounts.
- Try not to rush mealtimes as some toddlers eat very slowly.
- Eat together as a family as much as possible. Toddlers learn just as much by watching what you do, from table manners to savoring food and trying different things.
- Encourage them to feed themselves, it might help finger foods be accepted more easily. You can deal with the mess later.
Get full access to expert-backed nutrition support
My feed
Curated content based on your preferences
Feeding guidance
Learn about various feeding options and what each means for you and your baby
Tailored Practical Tools
Try our tailored practical tools to guide you through the parenting journey.
My First 1000 Days club
Customised notifications, reminders and newsletters
Still haven't found what you are looking for?
Try our new smart question engine. We'll always have something for you.