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

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

3. 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

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

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

6. 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).

7. 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

8. 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!

9. 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

10. 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!

11. 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!

12. 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

13. 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

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

15. 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

16. 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