Food Ideas for a One Year Old Toddler (Baby?)
Some days I think my one year old is a full blown toddler and others have me feeling like I still have a tiny baby! Hard to tell! Now, I totally understand why a one year old needs a month explanation added to it. A 12 month old and an 18 month old are vastly different humans and their food is too!
This meal is for my older one year old- so 18 months. We started foods a little later than 6 months because I honestly forgot to start packing food in addition to breast milk!
Creating balanced meals for my one-year-old that are both nutritious and convenient has always meant my child will have what we are having. I don’t think any special foods are necessary in most cases. However, if those specialty foods are better tolerated or give you more peace of mind as a new parent, go for it!
Today, I’m sharing the simple yet wholesome meals I packed for my little one to enjoy throughout the day. Balancing work and motherhood is no easy feat, but with a little planning, you can be sure your toddler is eating well (or you are giving good options at least) even on the busiest of days.
Breakfast: A Quick and Nutritious Start
For breakfast, I opted for a Perfect Bar, which is a great option for busy mornings. These bars are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them an excellent choice for sustained energy. My toddler managed to eat about half of the bar, which is a huge portion for a one-year-old. My husband and I eat a whole one each every day. They are so filling and easy to grab and go.
I added some strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries because they are her favorite options. She will eat some at breakfast and some for snack later on. Fruits are great for little hands but be sure to cut them according to recommended sizes to prevent any choking. Check with your healthcare team or a baby led weaning course for more information specific to your child.
The foods I show in the video are what I offer, it doesn’t mean she eats it all! As a parent, our main role when it comes to feeding is to offer foods at regularly scheduled times, then we can allow the child to eat it or not. The key to preventing picky eaters (in most instances) is to continue to offer a variety of healthy foods and not to become a short order cook or only send the child’s “favorite” option. The good news is, a toddler is a blank canvas!
Lunch: Leftovers Made Easy
When it comes to lunch, I always send leftovers, a strategy that saves time and encourages trying a variety of foods. It also takes away the added pressure for me to try to “make” her try it for dinner. No worries, you can try it tomorrow. Typically, if toddlers don’t eat, they aren’t hungry. They are pretty good at regulating their own appetites.
Today, I packed a meal featuring steak, potatoes, mushrooms, and asparagus, all leftovers from a weekend dinner. This hearty combination provides a well-rounded meal that includes protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. The steak is an excellent source of iron and protein, crucial for my toddler’s growth and development. Potatoes offer energy-boosting carbohydrates while mushrooms and asparagus add vitamins and fiber. This meal not only satisfies my toddler’s nutritional needs but also introduces them to a variety of textures and flavors.
Tips for Busy Moms
As a working mom, I understand the challenges of ensuring your child eats well, especially when time is limited. Here are a few tips that have helped me:
- Plan Ahead: Use weekends or evenings to prepare meals in advance. Cooking in larger batches means you’ll have nutritious leftovers to rely on during the week.
- Incorporate Variety: Offer a range of foods to expose your toddler to different tastes and textures, which is important for preventing picky eating and helping them try new things all the time.
- Balance is Key: Aim to include a mix of protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and plenty of fruits and vegetables in each meal.
Feeding a one-year-old can be an adventure, but with some planning and creativity, you can ensure your little one enjoys delicious and nutritious meals every day. I hope this peek into my toddler’s menu inspires you to explore new meal ideas and simplifies your routine as a busy mom!
