As you will know, toddlers are different from babies. They will not only have different dietary requirements, but they have different temperaments, energy levels, and healthcare needs.
If this is your first child, you will likely want to make sure you cater to their specific requirements, especially regarding nutrition, exercise, and potential health issues. Learn how to raise a healthy toddler.
Learn About Their Nutritional Requirements
The number of calories your toddler requires is determined by different factors, such as their physical activity level and medical needs. Also, they might have a bigger appetite if they are experiencing a growth spurt.
If in doubt, the American Heart Association recommends toddlers consume between 900 to 1200 calories, which should be divided into three meals and two healthy snacks.
However, it is important to remember your toddler’s appetite can vary each day. One day they might eat three meals a day, and the next day they might throw a tantrum during mealtime. If your child often eats nutritious dishes throughout the week and gaining weight, you likely don’t need to worry too much about their diet.
Visit a Dentist Every Six Months
Similar to adults, it is recommended children visit a dentist every six months, and toddlers are no exception. Take your son or daughter along to their first appointment as soon as their first tooth emerges. Even if their teeth are growing healthily and on schedule, routine dental visits will familiarize your child with the environment and stop them from fearing a visit to the clinic.
Choose a dentist that will make your child feel comfortable in the dental chair during every appointment. For instance, this dentist in Asheville NC strives to make each child and adult feel at home to prevent or ease dental phobia.
Make Time for Physical Activity
Toddlers are full of energy, which will make you feel tired just looking at them. However, if your toddler isn’t spending much time on their feet, you must encourage a minimum of 30 minutes of structured physical activity. Also, allow them to enjoy at least one hour of unstructured physical activity.
For example, you could go for a walk in the park, play chase in your garden, or enjoy a stroll around your neighborhood. You could even take your little one along to parent and child groups to get their body moving and improve their motor skills, such as music, movement, or yoga classes.
Book Appointments with a Pediatrician
In addition to taking your toddler to the dentist every six months, they should visit a pediatrician at 12, 15, 18, and 24 months. A pediatrician will screen your son and daughter for autism, obesity, and developmental problems during the appointments.
Plus, it will provide an opportunity to receive answers to any health or developmental questions you have. Also, a doctor will be happy to offer advice and treatment for various common health issues in toddlers, such as colds, skin complaints, ear infections, or UTIs.
To read more on topics like this, check out the Health category
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