Here’s a sample food diary for a 2-year-old baby, focusing on a balanced diet with essential nutrients. You can adjust portions based on your child’s specific preferences and appetite.
Day 1:
Breakfast:
- Oatmeal with mashed banana and a sprinkle of cinnamon
- Whole milk (about 4 oz)
Snack (Mid-Morning):
- Sliced apple with a few cubes of cheese
Lunch:
- Scrambled egg with spinach
- Whole wheat toast with avocado spread
- Water or diluted juice (4 oz)
Snack (Afternoon):
- Carrot sticks or cucumber slices with hummus
Dinner:
- Grilled chicken strips
- Steamed broccoli and mashed sweet potatoes
- Water or milk (about 4 oz)
Day 2:
Breakfast:
- Whole grain pancakes with fruit puree (blueberry, peach, etc.)
- Whole milk (about 4 oz)
Snack (Mid-Morning):
- A small handful of whole grain crackers with peanut butter (if no allergies)
Lunch:
- Turkey and cheese sandwich (cut into small pieces)
- Sliced strawberries or other fruit
- Water
Snack (Afternoon):
- Yogurt with a drizzle of honey (if 1 year or older)
Dinner:
- Fish fingers (baked)
- Mashed peas and corn
- Water
Day 3:
Breakfast:
- Whole wheat toast with almond butter or peanut butter
- A small serving of mixed berries
- Whole milk (about 4 oz)
Snack (Mid-Morning):
- Small slices of cheese and a few whole wheat crackers
Lunch:
- Mini vegetable muffins or savory pancakes
- A side of fresh fruit or veggie sticks
- Water
Snack (Afternoon):
- Sliced banana or pear with yogurt dip
Dinner:
- Chicken and vegetable stew (small, manageable pieces)
- Brown rice or quinoa
- Water or milk (about 4 oz)
General Tips:
- Offer water regularly throughout the day, and limit juice to about 4 oz per day.
- Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins, grains, and dairy for balanced nutrition.
- Keep portions small and adjust based on your child’s hunger cues.
- Introduce new foods gradually to ensure your baby accepts them.
- Encourage self-feeding with finger foods and a spoon to develop independence.
Let me know if you’d like more ideas or need specific tips based on dietary preferences!