What tips should I keep in mind?

Offer 3 meals and 2-3 snacks per day at consistent times Toddlers are naturally picky -- keep offering rejected foods (it can take 10-15 exposures) Switch from whole milk to 2% at age 2 (unless underweight)

Toddler Nutrition Calculator

Calculate daily calorie, protein, fat, and key nutrient needs for toddlers aged 1-3 years based on weight and activity level.

Results

Visualization

How It Works

Toddlers (1-3 years) need about 1,000-1,400 calories per day depending on size and activity. Key nutrients include iron (7mg), calcium (700mg), and adequate fat for brain development. Not medical advice -- consult your pediatrician.

The Formula

Calories: ~80 kcal/kg/day (1-2 years), ~75 kcal/kg/day (2-3 years)
Protein: 1.1g per kg body weight
Fat: 30% of total calories

Variables

80 kcal/kg — Calorie needs per kilogram for 1-2 year olds
700 mg calcium — Daily calcium requirement for 1-3 year olds
7 mg iron — Daily iron requirement for 1-3 year olds

Example

24 lb toddler (18 months, moderate activity): ~870 calories, 12g protein, 29g fat per day.

Tips

Offer 3 meals and 2-3 snacks per day at consistent times
Toddlers are naturally picky -- keep offering rejected foods (it can take 10-15 exposures)
Switch from whole milk to 2% at age 2 (unless underweight)
Limit juice to 4 oz/day or less; water and milk are best
Iron-rich foods: fortified cereal, beans, lean meats, spinach