Happy Days » Toddlers

I am regularly asked "When is the right time to introduce cows milk straight from the fridge?" Must we continue with formula milks into the toddler years or can regular cows milk suffice? The answer is complicated and does depend on your individual baby. The main points to look at are: 1. Does my baby have allergies? If so continue on the formula he is on. 2. Is my toddler a good eater? If you have a poor eater, you may need a specially formulated toddler milk for fussy eaters. 3. Is my toddler on breast milk? Breast milk still offers wonderful nutrients into the toddler years.  If your baby is on...

Between the ages of one and three years, your baby really becomes one of the family. Use the opportunity of lunchtime to try out different food experiences: chewy, crisp and soft; high calorie and low calorie; sharp and mild; convenience and homemade foods. Lunch time for the toddler is often split in two parts with the first part being the pre sleep meal and the second the post sleep meal. Toddlers are often sleeping over traditional lunch ‘time’ so it is important to be flexible in order to optimize intake. After a nap the Toddler needs some time to wake up before they are willing to sit down to...

Last week I saw a couple for help with getting their toddler to sleep through the night. The conversation went like this: MEG: “So tell me, where does your toddler sleep?” MOM: “He goes to sleep in his own bed and then comes through in the middle of the night – he doesn’t like to sleep on his own so he then sleeps in our bed.” MEG: “Does this work for you?” MOM: “I suppose it does - I love cuddling with him” DAD: Uncomfortable silence MEG: “Dad – tell me how you feel, do you also enjoy co-sleeping?” DAD: Glances at wife, “Umm well, it’s okay, I do sleep alright – I go...

I am often asked by mums when the best time to fall pregnant with number 2 is and whether to have two kids or more. Of course although I am considered to be somewhat of a baby care expert, the truth is some decisions are so personal that no one should really advise you on when and whether to add to your family. But since you asked, here are some of my personal feelings on the matter: Reasons to delay: Your baby is a baby and toddler for so short and in reality those baby days are gone before you know it. But nothing ‘grows a baby up’ quicker than the birth of a sibling. The night before your new...

    If your family dinner table has become a battleground, take heart – Specialist Dietician, Katherine Megaw gives guidelines on how to take the stress out of mealtimes with your toddler and child, end the arguments over food, and feed your fussy eaters. Solving a complex problem at work, finally achieving a personal goal is nothing compared to your child finishing a whole plate of food. Isn’t it amazing that no matter how big your accomplishments in your day, NOTHING, absolutely nothing compares to the satisfaction you get watching your toddler successfully finish a meal. You...