Toddlers thrive on predictable cues. This routine reduces battles, speeds up clean-up, and builds better eaters over time.
Principle: you decide the what/when/where; they decide whether/how much. That’s it.
The Routine (20–30 minutes total)
0–5 minutes: Pre-meal cues
- Wash hands together.
- Set the table: toddler places bib, bowl, cup, spoon (give them the job).
- Pick the meal: use Recipe Cards. They choose between two acceptable options.
- Screen-free: TV and toys away; soft music is fine.
5–25 minutes: Mealtime flow
1. Seat + feet: hips and knees at 90°, feet supported.
2. Serve small first: one tablespoon portions; more on request.
3. Language to use:
- “Here’s what we’re having.”
- “You don’t have to eat it.”
- “You can have more when you’re done with this serving.”
4. Offer water only. Milk fills them before food.
5. Neutral attitude: no praise for bites, no stress for refusals.
25–30 minutes: Post-meal reset
- Time-box: at ~30 minutes, mealtime ends even if untouched.
- Clear together: child carries their bowl to the sink (ownership).
- No grazing: next eating time is the next planned snack/meal.
If they refuse or throw food
- Stay calm, end early. “Looks like you’re done. We’ll try again at snack time.”
- Don’t cook a second meal. You can offer a safe side that was already on the table (bread, fruit, plain yoghurt).
- Throwing: remove the plate for 1 minute. “Food stays on the table.”
Environment checklist
- Stable high chair with footrest.
- Non-distracting table zone, soft light.
- Spill-Proof Bowl + Silicone Bib ready before food hits the table.
- Napkins/wipes within arm’s reach.
Weekly review (5 minutes on Sunday)
- Wins: what they ate without fuss? Repeat.
- Progress food: keep offering one new food alongside favourites.
- Plan 6 dinners + 1 “flex” night.
- Batch prep: cook rice or pasta for two nights; chop veg.
Common mistakes to drop
- Endless snacking (kills appetite).
- Bribes (“three more bites for dessert”).
- Over-portioning (intimidating).
- New food alone (always pair with a liked food).
Helpful add-ons:
- Check the Recipe Cards for the choice step.
- Discover the Gyro Bowl for less mess and faster clean-up.
- Get the Silicone Bib for comfort + catch.
