Snacks or no snacks...that is the question?

Question

Is it better for babies (particularly a one year old) to eat three meals and three snacks or three meals and just a bedtime snack. My son has always had a big breakfast, big lunch, and big dinner and then some yogurt and a bottle before bed. But, recently I've been hearing that he should have a snack between every meal and then not eat such big meal. Does it make a difference? If it makes a difference in your answer, he is a very active boy who is quite lean.

Answer 1

Why do we parents stress ourselves out so much?  I would say that if he is eating enough to stay healthy, then the big meals work for him.  When he becomes a toddler, the smaller meals with snacks may be better because they don't really want to sit still at that age, but really, as long as he's healthy, I don't think it matters at all.

Answer 2

Snacks, definitely.  Snacks are a crucial part of growing up!  He needs to eat less food, more often.  Here is the typically best-known eating schedule.

Breakfast

Morning Snack

Lunch

Afternoon Snack

Dinner

That's it.  All snacks should be small and healthy.  Like crackers, a piece of fruit, carrot sticks, raisins, etc.

Meals should be on the smaller side.  Your 2 year old's stomach is only as big as his fist, believe it or not.  He doesn't need very much food at one time to fill him up.  For example, a good meal would be 2 chicken nuggets, a small handful of some fruit, and a small handful of some veggies.  If he expresses hunger when finished, provide more fruits or veggies for him to choose from.

Good luck! :)

Answer 3

I guess it depends. Well that's how I feel. My son sometimes has a snack but sometimes doesn't. Since his appetite various the snack may fill him up and then he will not eat his whole meal. He will get picky and eat the sandwich, but not the broccoli. The same for dinner he may drink the glass of mild but for go the carrots or peas. If he has been active I might offer a banana or apple. But I am not a fan of the granola bars or gummy fruit snacks.