Which sample feeding schedule best reflects the recommendation for small, frequent, nutrient-dense meals and snacks for a typical toddler day?

• A. One large meal in the morning and two small snacks late in the day because toddlers should eat most calories early to prevent evening hunger.
• B. Breakfast, mid-morning snack, lunch, mid-afternoon snack, dinner—each small and nutrient-dense (e.g., 3–4 small meals/snacks spaced 2–3 hours apart) to match toddlers’ appetite and developmental eating patterns.
• C. Two very large meals only (lunch and dinner) with no snacks to train toddlers to sit for longer periods and to minimize grazing behaviors that interfere with appetite regulation.
• D. Continuous grazing from a communal snack bowl throughout the day so toddlers self-regulate by eating small amounts every 10–15 minutes without defined mealtimes or scheduling.

Answer: (B)