All About Toddler Nutrition

It is very natural for young children to be demanding and resistant towards foods. Some of it is a power struggle, some of it is a need for security and routine, and some of it is completely inexplicable. Often, though, consistency, patience, and a positive atmosphere can go a long way to breaking children out of their picky eating habits.

From eggs to wheat, peanut butter, to shellfish -- there is a lot of confusion and fear surrounding foods that are common allergens. Get the facts on when you can safely introduce these foods and what you need to know about food allergies in general.

Want to get people fired up, talk about nursing a child after 12 months of age. Beyond the ridiculous controversy, get the facts about extended breastfeeding and how to wean a toddler when you and she are ready.

Toddlers only need 1000 calories a day, so it's important to understand portion sizes and give them the right amount of milk, meat, fats, vegetables, and grains for their growing bodies.

Moving from you feeding your child to letting your child feed herself is a big step. For one, you're giving her some more control. For another, you're inviting a whole lot of mess and ickiness into your life. But, of course, you should do it -- but when and how?

Before your child's first birthday, she should be feeding herself some foods. These "finger foods" (since she'll probably use her hands and not a fork or spoon to eat them) should be soft and not pose any choking hazards. Get more tips and recipes about finger foods for older babies and toddlers.

For children who can't drink milk or moms who prefer not to serve it, providing enough calcium, vitamin D, and fats may seem like a challenge -- but you can do it by simply ensuring you include a variety of other foods in your child's diet.

There are a variety of reasons why you may want to transition your toddler out of the high chair. Not least among these reasons is the fact that boosters can end meal time fussiness or tantrums by allowing your toddler to feel more independent and in control of his world.

Helping your child give up the bottle now can make it easier for him to part with it without too much emotional drama. It can also help you ensure he is drinking and eating the right amounts for his age.

Find ideas on how to make nutritiously dense meals that toddlers will love and your whole family can enjoy as well (so you don't fall into the trap of making different meals for everyone).