This is the time to start implementing a daily schedule that includes regular meal times with all of the family. Your child can still enjoy snacks during the day, preferably healthy ones, but these should also be in regular times between the meals. Keeping a regular schedule helps set boundaries and balance the sense of hunger and fullness during the day. It is important to not force your child to eat, let him eat when he is hungry.
Researches show that around the age of 9 months there is a significant decrease in the consumption of vegetables and fruits, in favor of industrial and less healthy foods. It is too bad since kids at these ages need 2-3 snacks a day and this is the perfect opportunity to provide them with all the health that fruits and vegetables have to offer. Remember, snacks between meals doesn’t necessary mean candies.
When it comes to drinking, there is nothing as good as water. Avoid giving juices. The strong flavors of industrial food will take over your child’s developing sense of taste and will keep him away from healthy food.
If your child is around other caregivers besides you during the daytime, make sure that they maintain your healthy approach. Even at day-care! If possible, you can even talk about this subject with other parents and raise everyone’s awareness.
Remember, the danger of suffocation has yet to end! Make sure to provide small “bite” size pieces when feeding your child, and avoid dangerous foods like hard vegetables, grapes, hot dogs etc. Don’t forget, with each passing day they develop and are more independent, so it is important to make sure to keep small objects away from their reach since they can endanger them.
Last updated: May 2017
Authors - Tamar Sudry BA MED, Dr. Yair Sadaka MD Ph.D., pediatrician, Pediatric neurologist
Sources:
The Israeli ministry of health