Food Tips for Happy, Healthy Toddlers
In my many years as a nanny for families, I found that MOST kids did not eat solid, nutritious meals.
I was shocked at the number of bread/pasta & cheese offerings. It did not seem super important that the kids ate regular meals and instead often snacked during the day then they “weren’t hungry” for the more nutritious meals. I know bread/cheese is an easy kid-pleaser but we all know it wreaks havoc on the digestive system over time!
A big key to a happy toddler, and happy mom, is regular and nutritious meals. Dis-regulation and allergies around food is an often overlooked source of fussiness, tantrums, acting out in kids.
I’ve noticed when our lil guy snacks during the day (usually when we are visiting friends or away from home for much of the day) instead of eating a few solid meals, he seems to be fussier and it’s hard to tell if he’s hungry from the lack of full meals or just dis-regulated?? It’s frustrating either way!
Protein and good fats are key ingredients in a satisfying meal. Less carbs= less fussy kids.
As Ferran is getting picker with foods, it’s increasingly challenging to plan/prepare foods for him. And I know most families have the same struggle.
Here are some of my favorite finger foods and resources for meals and meal planning:
Our go to for finger foods: lentil or meat loaf. Basically, if it’s lentils or meat, add that with an egg, some quick cooking organic oats, salt, basil, tomato sauce and cheese (optional). I don’t really measure things, so I don’t have the amounts. The texture should be somewhat firm, not runny or it will take forever to cook. The oats help dry out the tomato sauce but you shouldn’t need more than 1/4 c oats for the meat loaf (turkey, chicken, beef). There are great recipes online for these.
Beans out of the can. Ferran loves pinto, black, kidney beans straight up.
Fruits- all of them 
Eggs, scrambled.
Oat muffins. Quick cooking oats, banana, raisins, peanut butter, baking soda 1t, 1T molasses, pinch salt and dash of almond/rice milk. Cook for 20-30 min at 350 in muffin tins. Texture should be goopy, not runny.
Two of my favorite blogs for food, nutrition ideas are:
French Foodie Baby http://frenchfoodiebaby.blogspot.com/p/recipe-index.html
Yummy, nutritious meal plans both “regular” and paleo. You get all the shopping items and complete meal plans for the week from an acupuncturist who eats real food. A small monthly fee, but worth it!!
Happy eating for healthier, happier kids and moms.
