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Toddler Factsheet 1.5
PLANNING MEALS
FOR TODDLERS
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LEARNING POINTS
1
Menu planning can help to establish a pattern of
nutritionally balanced family meals and snacks
2
A combination of foods from the five food groups
within a daily menu plan provides a balanced diet
for the whole family
3
Planning menus in advance can save money and
reduce food preparation time
4
Using fruits and vegetables when in season in the
UK can also reduce food costs
5
With good planning and a well stocked kitchen,
balanced meals can be easily put together
6
Always offering two courses at the main meals -
a savoury course and a nutritious pudding based
on fruit - enhances enjoyment of meals and
widens the range of nutrients included
7
Simple substitution of foods within the same food
group ensures a nutritional balance when planned
foods are unavailable on the day
8
Toddlers who are fussy or faddy eaters may
not consume all the foods on the planned menu
and must be offered something their parents
know they will eat, as well as foods being eaten
by others.