How do you make a 2yr. old eat his food?

Question

My son is going to be 2yr.old, he goes to daycare during the day and we go home around 3pm. I'll make him food like around 3:30 or 4:00 because I know they had luch like around 12 and then they get nap time. But when I make his food he doesn't want to eat it. What do you guys recommend?

Answer 1

Maybe he's not hungry. Don't force him to eat. He won't starve himself. Set out some apple slices, a banana, or another light, healthy snack. If he eats it little by little as he's playing, fine. If not, I'm sure he'll get plenty at dinner.

I've been told that as long as you continue to offer plenty of healthy foods at meals and snacks, kids will generally balance out their own diets over the course of a week or two. Don't let them fill up on candy or juice, and don't turn mealtime into a battle of wills. Just offer a variety of healthy foods, and he will eat what he needs.

Good luck!

Answer 2

You need to put the kitten food in something that the bigger cat cannot get into. Like put it inside a kennel / carrier and then use several tough plastic ties so the door will open only enough for the kitten to get through. of course you'll have to teach the kitten where the food is. And would be a good idea to wedge the kennel in a corner with something heavy against it in caes the older cat gets determined and starts pushing it around trying to break in. Or if your 2 yr old is not a pig who will overdo it and eat the kitten's food, you could put them both on an "all life stages" food. Or just feed them at set meal times when youre there. Cats don't absolutely have to have food down all the time.

Answer 3

He's probably not hungry. Try fixing him dinner around 5:30 or 6:00 and if you're worried that he might be starving by that time give him a small snack on the way home from daycare.

Answer 4

Two-year-olds are often difficult when it comes to eating. I have talked to my doctor about mine, as I feel like she doesn't eat enough, but I guess they don't need to eat as much as we might think and will eat if they are hungry. Try waiting a little while longer- he may not be hungry yet. My children eat lunch around 11:00, have a light snack at 3:00, and eat dinner around 5:15. I wouldn't worry unless your doctor indicates that your son is not at an appropriate weight for his age or is lacking in necessary nutrition. Good luck.

Answer 5

hahahahahahahaahaha! Make him eat his food, that's funny! My 2 year old feeds his to my dog.

Seriously, he eats best when I'm ignoring him. I put the food in front of him and either work around the kitchen or read and he just goes at it. As soon as I interact with him the meal is over. Also it is best if I am not eating with him because then he doesn't want his food but wants mine.

Answer 6

let the 2 yr old choose when he wants to eat. He knows when he is hungry. He will not starve. My son was like this also, and this is what his doc told us to do. Set his food out with the rest of the family's, if he doesn't eat maybe he will later. Just keep trying sooner or later he will eat with the family. And sure enough he does.

Answer 7

Always find out what your child ate before you try to feed him. Knowing if its something light or heavy that he ate is always helpful. My mom used to always bribe us. And i do the same thing with my neices and nephews. Or make it some sort of game, like the more food he eats the stronger he may become. Or give the food another name, dont call it food call it treats or candy. You always want the upper hand when it comes to the terrible twos. I hope i have helped you.

Answer 8

I have the same problem. I used to think it was a "problem" until realizing that it is totally normal for this age. He will eat when he is hungry and don't worry about him starving. My doctor said to set a goal of getting our son to eat at least one good meal a day and not to worry after that. Two year olds have minds of their own...the more you force them, the more they will fight against you. Take a deep breath and just relax. :) hope that helps!

Answer 9

maybe your two year old isn't hungry. Try feeding him at 5pm or 5:30 pm. Try giving him macaroni and cheese, and cut hot dogs, cut up into small pieces, and finger foods. If possible let him play outside, as the air makes you hungry. Hope this helps. If not call the pediatrician, and ask his suggestions.

Answer 10

You cannot make a child eat. You may try offering up things he likes or try new fun kid things. Try Kraftfoods.com they have great kid friendly recipes. Maybe he isn't hungry at that time and may be able to go longer. Do they not give him a snack? Leave it out and see when he is hungry he will eat it. One thing I have learned with two kids, you cannot make them eat....it will be a power struggle.