There are certain things your child will want at mealtime. (For infant feeding, see Infant/baby care.)
Tip
Your child's likes and dislikes will change, it seems, every day. She may like chicken one day, but not the next time. Or, it may seem she only likes peanut butter sandwiches and milk. Keep offering new foods and choices.
Ages 1 to 2: Your child will want to feed himself, is easily distracted at the table and likes a routine.
Age 2: Your child may have strong food likes and dislikes. He is growing slowly and may go for days without eating much or go for days eating almost nonstop.
Age 3: Your child is growing more steadily and shouldn’t have swings in his appetite. Your child should be able to chew food well.
Age 4: Your child will eat quickly, drink quickly, talk a lot and move around a lot. He may leave the table to go to the bathroom.
Age 5: Your child is growing faster and his appetite increases. He may even accept new or unusual foods.
Do not give nuts to a child younger than age 7 due to choking risk.
