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| |    Toddler Growth: Expect a Slowdown by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P. reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P. Toddlers often worry their parents by eating erratically and growing more slowly than they should. Normally, physical growth slows down at around 12 months of age. Instead of shooting up like a rocket, it levels off somewhat, more like a gently climbing airplane. Decreased appetite is normal This normal slowing down of growth causes toddlers' appetites to decrease somewhat, so it can seem as though they are not eating enough. Be assured: If they are healthy and active, and you are offering them nutritious food, they are probably doing fine. If you are concerned, a quick weight check with your child's doctor or nurse will probably put you at ease. Don't force-feed One thing not to do, if you are concerned, is push food. Pushing food on a toddler who is not hungry often backfires. Toddlers have a natural and healthy drive to control what goes into their mouths. I've known many toddlers who go on hunger strike just so that they can be sure that they are in control. Help your toddler enjoy eating You can smile pleasantly and chat while your toddler eats; you can eat your own food with obvious enjoyment, and let you toddler have a little bit off your plate; but you shouldn't try to force or trick your toddler into eating, or go overboard in praising him when he does.
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