The Most Common Question About Feeding Kids


Hi Reader,

I get a LOT of questions from parents about feeding kids, everything from suggestions on food sources of iron to favorite crackers for toddlers to best sippy cups, how to start solids, and on and on. But the most frequent question?

"Is this normal???"

And in almost all cases, the answer is YES.

It's normal that it's hard to predict a child's appetite and food preferences on any given day.

It's normal that some kids are more into food than others, that some are more challenging to feed than others.

It's normal to be exhausted by cooking, cleaning, and anticipating everyone's needs.

It's normal that feeding a family is hard.

The good news? You're never alone in your struggles, even if there are times when it feels like you are. It can be hard to remember that in the moment, but when I find myself worrying or feeling overwhelmed, I take a breath and try to look at the bigger picture. Is everyone fed? Super. Are we (most of the time because life with kids is a trip!) enjoying meals? Perfect. Is there a mix of foods over the course of a whole week? Great.

We don't have to judge ourselves so harshly or by each bite our kids take or don't take. We can remember that it's okay to keep learning and seeing what works best for our families. We can always pivot as needed.

I've been feeling the feeding anxiety of so many parents lately and I just needed to say: You're doing a great job. (Even on days when you're not sure.)


Unrelated: If you're planning ahead for Valentine's Snacks, lots of ideas are there for you. These Chocolate Muffins are always a good idea!


These healthy Baked Sheet Pan Nachos have a tender potato base and are topped with black beans, cheese, salsa and (optional!) spinach. They’re a total family dinner hit—and are so easy to prep ahead of time to make getting dinner on the table possible on even busy days.

EASY CHOCOLATE SUGAR COOKIES

With just a few simple ingredients and a super easy method, these are a yummy dessert to share with the kids.

FLUFFY CHOCOLATE MUFFINS

Fluffy, tender, and just sweet enough, these easy Chocolate Muffins are a favorite breakfast and snack to share with the kids.

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FREEZING FOOD

Learn how to maximize the food you buy and make—and waste less food—with this guide to freezing food.

Yummy Toddler Food: Easy Recipes for Families

Amy from Yummy Toddler Food shares easy recipes for families with little kids, the best gear recommendations, and no-fuss feeding advice to make mealtimes more enjoyable.

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