Oh, toddlers. They're adorable, they're exploring, they're voicing their opinions... which is usually, "NO!!!" Since I left teaching, only a few months ago, I watch other people's toddlers on a regular. Currently, I watch two different sets of twin 2 year-olds, as well as a 2 year-old and her 9 month-old sister. Finally, I think I've outsmarted them.

When my son was a toddler, I started experimenting with his diet. I wish I had sooner. Toddlers seem to know (demand) what they want, and have the persistance of a mule. If you make the discovery that your child suffers from gluten intolerance, I suggest acting quickly. Habits are tough to break at all ages. I'm proud to announce I surprise parents of these 2 year-olds on a regular with what I was able to get their child to consume while in my care.

My secret: lead by example. Just the other day, I was eating a baked sweet potato while watching the 2 year-old and the 9 month-old. Guess what? The 9 month-old wanted some. Gluten-free AND appealing. It happens all the time. The next day, I was eating a banana. Her 2 year-old sister helped me eat half of it. I think part of the success is my nonchalant attitude. I whip out my safe and healthy snacks, and the children observe me enjoying it. Almost instantly, they want it. Toddlers like to be in control. When I work with toddlers, I like to trick them into wanting what I have... whether it be an art project, a book, a meal... if I act completely submerged in it and don't invite them, they want to be a part of it!

Thankfully, there are also a number of allergen-free snack options these days... such as Enjoy-Life products. At the tender age of 2, it is very difficult to introduce little ones to allergens at times. There are so many gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, egg-free, soy-free options within this company. If you're not into cooking like me, some cookies or cereal bars just might be the perfect fit for you and your toddler. Other than that though, my advice is to try to stick with whole foods, like ones that grow on trees and such. Processed foods, in my opinion, introduce so many questionables.

When my son was 2, his consumables included banana, sweet potato, and avocado. I strategically found these items on the list of "Least Allergenic Foods" prominantly posted on my refrigerator at all times. I know my son was extreme in the scheme of things, but he has taught me so much regarding digestion and when to introduce new foods. My biggest word of advice: if you're not sure about something, DON'T try and introduce it. Toddlers have a very keen sense of what they want and what is not allowed. If they've never known it, they won't know what they're missing!