18
months
18 month
MEAL PLAN By 18 months, your child is able to eat the same foods as the rest of the family. A typical meal pattern for this age consists of 3 meals and about 2 snacks daily. Your child may be able to verbalize when he is hungry and when he is satisfied. His developing communication skills may also include voicing his likes and dislikes when it comes to food. The best way to encourage healthy eating is by continuing to offer
a variety of nutritious foods across all food groups, while limiting his exposure to foods with added sugars and salts,
including processed foods.
This tip is from our Happy Mama Mentor Colleen, RD, CBS and mom to John & Benjamin Also available to chat at: happyfamilyorganics/chat
PER DAY
KS
1-2
S N AC
S
3
M E AL
The below meal plan is designed to help meet your toddler’s needs, focusing on plenty of produce, quality protein, whole grains, and healthy fats.
SNACKS
DINN ER
LU NCH
BR EAKFAST
Option 1
Option 2
Option 3 Whole grain waffle with ricotta cheese and berries
Muffin made with oats or other whole grain
Scrambled eggs with chopped baby spinach
Fruit on the side
Side of melon
Whole wheat pasta mixed with white beans and tomato sauce
Turkey roll up: whole wheat tortilla with hummus spread, turkey, and sliced cucumber
Sliced chicken Side of bell pepper strips and hummus dip
Baked fish with green beans and a sweet potato
Stir fry with chicken, squash, peas, and brown rice
Black bean tomato quesadillas made with whole grain tortilla
Sliced apples with a thin spread of nut butter
Yogurt topped with berries
Smoothie: ½ banana, whole milk or milk alternative, berries, and 1 tsp nut butter