How Should I Feed My 15-Month-Old Child?

The transition from baby to toddler is an exciting one with lots of firsts. By 15 months old, your child should be well onto eating table foods and exploring how to use utensils and eat independently. Feeding your child nutritional and age-appropriate meals is often a source of concern for parents, but with these general guidelines, it does not have to be.

Things You'll Need

  • Cup
  • Utensils
  • Cereal
  • Milk
  • Fresh fruit
  • Fresh vegetables
  • Hot dogs
  • Yogurt

Instructions

    • 1

      Offer your child small, nutrient-rich meals. A toddler's stomach is small, so it is best to limit empty calories so that he fills up on the good stuff. Generally, a toddler eats three small meals with two or more snacks in between mealtimes. Don't be surprised if he does not eat every meal or snack; a toddler eats on their stomach's schedule, not by the clock.

    • 2

      Present your child with healthy foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, cereal, cheese, yogurt, bread and meat, which are all nutritionally sound choices for your child.

    • 3

      Give your 15-month old whole milk to drink. Whole milk is rich in dietary fats and aids brain development. Milk is a key part of your child's diet because it contains Vitamin D and calcium, both of which aid in developing strong bones.

    • 4

      Introduce a cup around 12 to 18 months of age. Weaning from the bottle or breast is an important step in fostering independence.

    • 5

      Relax. It may take several attempts -- sometimes 10 to 20 tries -- for your child to accept a new food. This is normal. Keep giving your child the new foods along with the foods she has already accepted. Eating should be a fun experience for the whole family. If mealtimes are stressful, she will be less likely to try new foods or enjoy eating.

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