Topic Overview

Small children tend to go through phases of picky eating. Try to offer a wide variety of fun, nutritious choices. Don't force your child to eat.

Don't restrict fat in the diet of children younger than age 2. Most children need whole milk between 1 and 2 years of age. But your doctor may recommend 2% milk if your child is overweight or if there is a family history of obesity, high blood pressure, or heart disease. Over the age of 2, serve fat-free or low-fat milk.

To increase the enjoyment and acceptance of nutritious snacks, let your child help prepare them. Here are a few creative snack ideas:

• Ants on a log: Celery stick stuffed with peanut butter and topped with raisins.
• Pretzel pops: Cubed cheese on a pretzel stick.
• Fruit kebabs: Toothpicks lined with your child's favorite fruits—canned or fresh.
• Smudgies: Blend 1½ cups milk with ½ cup peanut butter and 1 package of sugar-free instant pudding—chocolate or vanilla. Beat well, then let stand for 5 minutes. Spread filling ½-inch thick on graham cracker square. Top with another graham cracker square and then freeze until firm—about 3 hours. Makes 12.
• English muffin pizza: Halve an English muffin, spread pizza sauce on top, sprinkle with cheese, then bake at 350°F (177°C) until cheese melts.
• Bagel bites: Slice flavored bagels thin, like coins, and place on a baking sheet. Spray them lightly with olive oil and bake at 400°F (204°C) for 10 minutes.
• Fruit milk shake: Blend together ½ cup strawberry or vanilla yogurt, ½ cup frozen strawberries (frozen without added sugar), and 1 teaspoon lemon juice.