Principles of Feeding
(Toddler and up)
Three meals per day with (one or at most two) wholesome
nutritious snacks planned by parent. Avoid junk food, juices, and sweets.
Let child go hungry: Never force your child to eat.
The best appetite stimulant is hunger. E.g., if he refuses to eat one meal,
wait until the next.
Eat at Table: Play on floor - not the reverse.
Do not allow child to eat or drink while on the floor or while walking.
Water and Juices: You can give water anytime between
meals. Juices should be given only at planned snacks, meals and at the table (by cup
if under a year).
Off bottle by one year of age. Whole milk from a
cup. Never put infant to bed with bottle. Even in early moths remember to put
child to bed and allow child to get to sleep on his/her own or settle himself down.
Dr. Pfanstiel feels very strongly regarding this principle.*
Dental Care: Brush teeth before bed, nothing with sugar
(milk, juice) after teeth have been brushed. You can start dental/gum care at six to
nine months of age. A soft toothbrush or moist face cloth with baking soda will do
the job.
Doctor's Suggestion: Before putting child to bed,
relax, have family time, brush teeth and say prayers!
* Clarification: I am not advocating a lack of holding,
swaddling, loving, or close contact with your infant or child. To the contrary, I
feel that closeness physically, emotionally, and spiritually are vital. What I am
emphasizing is that there comes a point (that can be learned by the child only with proper
training) for your child to know the game is over. That he is to go to sleep now, on
his own, and in his or her own bed. This discipline is vital for your child to learn
when he is young. |
