As a parent to a toddler, I am currently knee deep in baby led weaning toddler meal planning! If you’re a parent of a toddler, you’re probably always on the lookout for healthy foods. One popular approach is baby-led weaning, which involves letting your child self-feed with finger foods.
The Cleveland Clinic describes baby-led weaning as a method where caregivers observe their baby’s readiness and allow them to self-feed once they are ready. The approach involves closely following the baby’s lead in the feeding process.
The best foods for toddlers include a variety of proteins such as meat, seafood, poultry, eggs, nuts, seeds, and soy. Dairy is also important for bone growth and can come from milk, yogurt, cheese, or calcium-fortified soymilk. Finally, fruits, vegetables, and grains like whole wheat bread and oatmeal are essential for a balanced diet.
However, it’s important to keep a few things in mind when it comes to toddler nutrition. Calcium is important for bone growth, and children should drink 16 ounces (480 mL) of milk each day. Children should stay on whole milk until they are two, unless there is a reason to switch to low-fat sooner. Gradually switching from whole to 2% milk before switching to low-fat (1%) or skim can make the transition easier.
Moreover, for more information and tips on preparing foods for babies and toddlers, check out the Solid Starts first foods database. They provide a wealth of information such as introducing solids, or which foods are appropriate for different age groups.
Also, check out my recommended baby-led weaning products. This list includes some essentials, like silicone bibs, suction plates, and utensils.
Meal Planning
Here’s a sample menu for a two-year-old child who weighs approximately 27 pounds (12.5 kg):
Breakfast:
½ cup milk, ½ cup iron-fortified cereal or 1 egg, 1/3 cup fruit (e.g., banana, strawberries),
½ slice whole wheat toast,
1 teaspoon jelly or ½ teaspoon unsalted butter
Snack:
4 crackers with cheese or hummus or ½ cup cut-up fruit or berries,
½ cup water
Lunch:
½ cup low-fat or nonfat milk,
½ sandwich (1 slice whole wheat bread, 1 ounce meat, slice of cheese, veggie like avocado, lettuce, or tomato),
2–3 carrot sticks (cut up) or 2 tablespoons other dark-yellow or dark-green vegetable,
½ cup berries or 1 small (½ ounce) low-fat oatmeal cookie
Snack:
½ cup nonfat or low-fat milk,
½ apple (sliced),
3 prunes,
1⁄3 cup grapes (cut up), or ½ orange
Dinner: ½ cup nonfat or low-fat milk,
2 ounces meat,
1⁄3 cup pasta, rice, or potato,
2 tablespoons vegetable
In addition to these meals, there are plenty of toddler-friendly finger foods, such as pizza, smoothies, and sandwiches.
Sandwiches and Wraps
Introducing sandwiches to your little one is a big moment in their feeding journey. But as with any new food, it’s important to ensure they are ready before offering them sandwiches.
Introducing sandwiches to my son was a little nerve-wracking but I followed some tips to make the transition easier.
I opted for whole grain breads that were lower in sugar and higher in fiber. As for fillings, I chose soft ones that were easy for him to chew and swallow, like avocado and hummus.
I also made sure to cut sandwiches into small, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking hazards. Moreover, I always supervise my son while he is eating.
Sandwiches are a great way to introduce new flavors and textures, and it definitely helped expand his taste buds. Lastly, some of his favorite sandwiches are PB&J, quesadillas, egg salad, and avocado toast.
Baby Led Weaning Toddler Meal Planning Resources
As a new parent, I know it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of feeding your little one. That’s why you should check out some of my recommended baby-led weaning products, like silicone bibs and suction plates.
Most importantly, remember to let your little one eat until they’re full and make mealtimes a positive experience. With a little creativity and patience, you can help your child develop healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.
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Let’s help our children develop healthy eating habits together!