Caring for children from age 1-3 December 8, 2011

Good Morning! 5/1/14 Todays Agenda: Review physical development Learn about caring for toddlers Meal planning for toddlers

Let’s review Growth – slows considerably – ½ pound/month, height grows at half the speed. Physical skills improve dramatically Proportion of head, chest, arms changes Teeth – care and diet are critical for health later 1 – 8 teeth 2 – 16 teeth 3 – 20 teeth; all of the primary set

Motor skills Grow from simple to complex Large and small – need opportunities to develop Safety – so important at this stage!

Caring for children age 1-3 Meal planning Good hygiene Clothing Bedtime issues Potty training

Feed Me…. Healthy foods – habits developed now influence habits throughout life Every 3-4 hours – because my stomach is small But, let me try to eat by myself as much as possible (I know it’s messy, but I need the practice) And encourage me to try new foods, but don’t force me (I’ll just rebel).

What does a 1 year old eat? Variety of baby foods Simple foods the family eats – low in sugar and salt Finger foods – easy to pick up and eat Small pieces – everything must be cut into very small pieces, skin and hard pieces taken off Start using a spoon at about 18 months (1 ½ yrs) Whole milk until age 2

What does a 2 year old eat? Can eat just about anything, though still in small pieces Reduced fat or low fat milk They may take a long time and be distracted, so be patient! Habits are developing Eating as a family is important Helps develop motor skills – patience and willingness to clean up are key!

What does a 3 year old eat? Anything! Full set of teeth=easy chewing Still cut in small pieces Should be able to use utensils well

Meal Planning Healthy foods from the food pyramid Color – lots of color – kids love it! Texture – crunchy crackers, chewy cheese, juicy grapes Shape – cut sandwiches, vegetables Temperature – serve hot and cold in same meal Make sure it’s not too hot! Stir to get rid of “hot spots” Ease of eating – ground beef or pork chop? Let’s plan!

Ways to make it enjoyable Include children in the meal preparation Follow a regular schedule – they don’t like to wait Keep meals pleasant Use sturdy, non-breakable dishes Use a cup that’s easy for the child Use child-size utensils Have them sit in a high chair or booster Be a good example – they will imitate!

Bathing How often should children have a bath? Developing life long habits Daily baths at night are often part of evening routine Fun for children and good practice Safety! Drown – never leave them alone Use rubber mat on bottom to prevent slipping Cover faucet with something soft

Caring for teeth Brush teeth right after eating Let them try, then you do it to get clean By age 3, pretty good at it Have first check-up at 18 months Begin flossing

Dressing “I want to do it” Requires many large and small motor skills And lots of practice and patience Start trying to help around 13-14 months By age 3, can dress independently (help with buttons) Learn independence, responsibility and self esteem

Choosing clothing Comfort – freedom to move Size is important – too small can be restrictive Durability – lots of wear and tear at this age Economy – find deals or hand-me-downs, they grow out of it fast

Wrap Up Age of “I do it” Learn to feed themselves, dress themselves More physical capabilities – exploring the world – safety is critical Cater to their needs – small food, healthy food, easy clothing, teach them manners and routines