keeping track of toddlers foods throughout the day

[bstandlee]

Does anyone use a chart or something to help visually track what your toddler or family eats throughout the day to help them be aware of eating a healthy variety of foods?

I keep thinking it would be a more concrete way for my 2 year old to be learning about eating a variety of healthy foods. We talk about eating all the colors of the rainbow, and it seems like a logical next step would be to have an actual rainbow on the wall where he can stick the color of food he's eaten during the day. (I'm just not sure where the other food groups such as meat and grains would fit in the rainbow).

Or maybe a healthier version of a food pyramid (as in mostly veggies, fruits and proteins)?

And, honestly, sometimes by the time dinner comes around I can't remember what DS has actually eaten in the terms of vegetables or fruit, etc. I remember what I've offered him but not what he's actually eaten

Any ideas or suggestions would be great!

[paxye]

I just offer good foods throughout the day...

I find that kids go through phases and they really don't need that much food.... a lot less than we are led to believe by some...

If it is fun for all of you, it can be a great idea to learn about food, but don't get caught up in it and worried if your childs diet isn't optimum at all times... as long as you are offering healthy choices, there isn't much that can go wrong IMO especially at such a young age...

[Belize Caye Family]

I love your idea of having an actual rainbow on the wall. I can see where this would help a Mama keep track in a fun way!

Maybe make a laminated rainbow-shaped chart with velcro dots, he could stick a little star (or some other significant shape) to "check off" which foods he has eaten over the course of his day.

Red, orange, yellow, etc. then put a beige or brown band at the bottom to represent the grains... or a brown patch of earth under the rainbow?

Ooohhh, I LOVE this idea. I'm already thinking about making my own. I'm a teacher so I've spent years making laminated classroom charts.

Have fun with your wonderful idea!

[bstandlee]

Originally Posted by Belize Caye Family

I love your idea of having an actual rainbow on the wall. I can see where this would help a Mama keep track in a fun way!

Maybe make a laminated rainbow-shaped chart with velcro dots, he could stick a little star (or some other significant shape) to "check off" which foods he has eaten over the course of his day.

Red, orange, yellow, etc. then put a beige or brown band at the bottom to represent the grains... or a brown patch of earth under the rainbow?

Ooohhh, I LOVE this idea. I'm already thinking about making my own. I'm a teacher so I've spent years making laminated classroom charts.

Have fun with your wonderful idea!

Ok, the creative juices are flowing! I love the idea of a brown patch under the earth...sort of ties in with the "we eat what grows in the ground or walks on it" concept. Thanks for the ideas!