When your toddler was a baby chances are he or she did not eat on the same schedule as every one else. This is because a baby has different nutritional needs and has to be fed, meaning a parent cannot eat and feed a baby. Now a toddler your child needs at least three sit down meals the same way you do and has mastered the art of self-feeding.

While eating a family meal with a toddler can be a bit different having your toddler eat as many meals or snack with the family as possible can have a world of benefits. Allowing your toddler to eat with you lets him or her see a few things such as how to eat, how to behave at the table, what to eat (so be sure you are eating healthy yourself), and what taste good and bad. Table time is also a great time for your toddler to engage in conversation and learn even more new words. On top of the array of learning opportunities, committing to have the whole family eat even just one meal a day together insures family time for bonding. Toddler’s who eat meals with their family are shown to better adjusted later in life, have a healthier body weight and get in less trouble in school or day care later on.

When transitioning your toddler to the big table it is best to begin simply by pulling their highchair near the table like a chair. You will want to keep the tray at first. During dinner be sure to acknowledge and talk to your toddler. Also, be sure to serve every member of the family the same food. Toddlers will notice even if mom or dad has a different drink and feel left out. Avoid expressing your own dislike for any one food as you toddler may pick up on it and in turn not like that food either. Attempt to make any meals your toddler has at the same time each day, routine can help insure your toddler is hungry and ready to eat when mealtime comes. You can make snack available during the day in-between meals.

Once your toddler is to a point that the table and dinner with the family is not new and exciting you can remove the highchair tray and have your toddler simply use the chair as a chair. Note that younger toddlers may flip or throw food so any mats to catch any droppings should remain.

In time your toddler will learn to eat at the table just like everyone else and be happy to do so.