After a child is 2 years old, this is no longer the first 1000 days of life. It is no longer a critical period for children's growth and development. However, this period still needs to be considered because there are still important growth and development of children, especially in the development of the brain.
Child development after 2 years old
Child's brain development is still running at this time until 8 years old child. This is still a critical period of various developments in children's cognitive, motoric, and emotional skills, as well as children's physical growth. Although there are some growth and development of children who walk more slowly after the age of 2 years.
When entering the age of two, the child's weight gain decreases to around 0.2 kg / month, until he reaches the age of five. Meanwhile, the height of a child at the age of two years has only reached 75% of his body length at birth. Your child's height will be twice his body length at birth at around four years old.
In terms of skills, children over two years old have many skills, such as walking, running, using their own toilets, eating alone, drinking alone using glass, and others. At this age, children will also ask more questions. This is because he wants to know more about the surrounding environment, from here he will learn many things. Of course, this also supports the development of his brain.
Nutritional needs after a 2 year old child
After a child is 2 years old, in general all children have been released from breast milk, and replaced with formula milk. Children also consume more solid foods, supported by the teeth of children who have a lot and the ability to eat children who are growing.
Although the child's growth rate slows after the age of two, the child's nutritional needs must still be met. Nutrition remains number one that must be considered to support children's growth and development.
Reporting from Kids Health, toddlers generally need around 1000-1400 calories per day. These calories can be obtained from food sources of carbohydrates (rice, noodles, bread, pasta, potatoes), animal protein (fish, chicken, meat), vegetable protein (tofu, tempeh, beans), vegetables, and fruits. The five types of food should always be on the child's plate every meal.
Not to forget, milk is also an important part of children's nutritional needs. Why? This is because milk contains calcium and vitamin D which are good for developing healthy bones in children. However, milk also contains high fat and sugar. So, for children who are overweight, you might be able to offer low-fat or fat-free milk for children.
In addition, milk generally contains low iron. Too much consumption of milk without being balanced with other solid foods can put children at risk of iron deficiency. To prevent this, it's good to consume milk is limited, just 2-3 bottles per day. Do not forget also to give children a variety of healthy and nutritious foods. Good luck for you and your kids!