Parenting Tips for Your 29-30 Month Old Toddler
Mealtime is not just a time to eat. It can be a time to talk, share, and enjoy being with others. Family members can tell each other what has been happening at school, work, or home. Even though your toddler may not talk well, let him take part in this sharing. Ask him questions, and let him answer for himself.
Mealtime is not a good time to discuss family problems about money, misbehavior, and the like. No one feels like eating when there is an argument going on. If this happens often, your child will begin to dread meals. He will eat as quickly as possible and then want to leave the table. He may begin to have stomach aches because mealtime is unpleasant.
Talk about problems after the meal is over and everyone has left the table. During meals, think of things to talk about that will help everyone feel good about themselves and others.
If you are eating alone with your child, you can talk about the names of the different foods on his plate and the color and shape of each food. You can count how many different foods or pieces of food there are on his plate. With a little imagination and planning, you and your toddler can make every meal a happy meal.
