The U.S. Department of Agriculture developed a special Food Guide Pyramid for children 2 to 6 years old that focuses on offering a variety of foods in portion sizes tailored to their age. Toddlers need the same variety of foods as pre-schoolers but in smaller portions. Children, however, are free to determine how much they eat of what is offered - and whether they eat it at all. As long as children have plenty of energy, are healthy and eating a variety of foods, they are probably getting enough of the nutrients they need. Set an example.
Children learn from others about how and what to eat.
If veggies never cross your lips, don't be surprised when children leave them on the plate too. The increasing rates of obesity among both adults and children makes it tempting to restrict children's food intake. Sometimes, however, children gain weight before they gain height. A good first approach is to allow children to grow UP before attempting to change or restrict their eating to control weight. Encourage your child to be active.