Caring for children from age 1-3

December 8, 2011

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

Let’s reviewGrowth – slows considerably – ½

pound/month, height grows at half the speed.Physical skills improve dramaticallyProportion of head, chest, arms changesTeeth – care and diet are critical for health

later1 – 8 teeth2 – 16 teeth3 – 20 teeth; all of the primary set

Motor skillsGrow from simple to complexLarge and small – need opportunities to

developSafety – so important at this stage!

Caring for children age 1-3Meal planningGood hygieneClothingBedtime issuesPotty training

Feed Me….Healthy foods – habits developed now

influence habits throughout lifeEvery 3-4 hours – because my stomach is

smallBut, 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 foodsSimple foods the family eats – low in sugar

and saltFinger foods – easy to pick up and eatSmall 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 piecesReduced fat or low fat milkThey may take a long time and be distracted,

so be patient!Habits are developing

Eating as a family is importantHelps develop motor skills – patience and

willingness to clean up are key!

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

Meal PlanningHealthy foods from the food pyramidColor – lots of color – kids love it!Texture – crunchy crackers, chewy cheese,

juicy grapesShape – cut sandwiches, vegetablesTemperature – serve hot and cold in same

mealMake 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 enjoyableInclude children in the meal preparationFollow a regular schedule – they don’t like to

waitKeep meals pleasantUse sturdy, non-breakable dishesUse a cup that’s easy for the childUse child-size utensilsHave them sit in a high chair or boosterBe a good example – they will imitate!

BathingHow often should children have a bath?Developing life long habitsDaily baths at night are often part of evening

routineFun for children and good practiceSafety!

Drown – never leave them aloneUse rubber mat on bottom to prevent slippingCover faucet with something soft

Caring for teethBrush teeth right after eatingLet them try, then you do it to get cleanBy age 3, pretty good at itHave first check-up at 18 monthsBegin flossing

Dressing“I want to do it”Requires many large and small motor skills

And lots of practice and patienceStart trying to help around 13-14 monthsBy age 3, can dress independently (help with

buttons)Learn independence, responsibility and self

esteem

Choosing clothingComfort – freedom to move

Size is important – too small can be restrictiveDurability – lots of wear and tear at this ageEconomy – find deals or hand-me-downs, they

grow out of it fast

Wrap UpAge of “I do it”

Learn to feed themselves, dress themselvesMore physical capabilities – exploring the

world – safety is criticalCater to their needs – small food, healthy

food, easy clothing, teach them manners and routines