Sugar is one of the most confusing and emotional topics for parents—especially when it comes to feeding babies and toddlers.

In this episode, Kathy explains everything you need to know about sugar for little ones, from the research-backed recommendation to avoid added sugar under age two to how to build a balanced and healthy relationship with sweets after the second birthday. You’ll learn why sugar can crowd out essential nutrients in young children’s diets, how early exposure shapes taste preferences, and practical strategies to help parents set boundaries without creating restriction or obsession.

Tune in to hear:

• Why babies under 2 should avoid added sugar—and what counts as added sugar.
• How early exposure to sweet foods shapes taste preferences for life.
• Practical swaps and label-reading tips to keep your child nourished without stressing over perfection.
• What to do about birthday cake, bread, and common foods with hidden sugar.
• The difference between natural sugars (like fruit) and added sugars.
• How to normalize sugar after age 2 so it’s not a forbidden food.
• Why using sweets as rewards or bribes backfires—and what to do instead.
• Real-life examples from Kathy’s own experience as a mom (from birthday cupcakes to cruise ship ice cream).

Doors Open for the Mini Me Method - Apply Now

Connect with Kathy:

@theminimedietitian

Website: https://theminimedietitian.com/

Grab my free Top Tips for Feeding Toddlers Guide

What if feeding your baby could actually feel easy—and even enjoyable?

In this episode, Kathy shares the five simple things she did to make feeding her baby less stressful and more enjoyable. From setting a realistic timeline to feeding family meals, Kathy walks you through practical, real-life strategies that simplify baby feeding without the guilt or overthinking.

If you’ve ever wondered how to balance introducing solids, align mealtimes with family routines, or stop overcomplicating feeding altogether, this episode is for you.

Tune in to hear:

• Why babies don’t need 3 full meals right away (and what to do instead)
• How to set a timeline that makes starting solids feel simple
• The surprising role your own nutrition plays in shaping your child’s eating habits
• Why feeding your baby family meals can save time and reduce stress
• The power of aligning mealtimes so your baby learns by watching you
• How going back to the basics (carb + protein + veggie + fat) is enough

Doors Open for the Mini Me Method - Apply Now

Connect with Kathy:

@theminimedietitian

Website: https://theminimedietitian.com/

Grab my free Top Tips for Feeding Toddlers Guide

Have you ever felt lost, confused, or overwhelmed trying to figure out how to feed your baby or toddler? You’re not alone—and this podcast is here to support you.

In this very first episode of Food for Tot, Kathy shares her personal journey of navigating the often confusing world of baby and toddler nutrition. As a pediatric dietitian and mom, she thought she’d be prepared—until her own son’s feeding journey threw her a curveball. From the pressure of conflicting advice to the tears over a first failed attempt at green beans, Kathy opens up about what it really looks like to find your footing in feeding.

Whether you’re just starting solids, rethinking your approach, or simply looking for encouragement, this episode will remind you: you don’t have to have it all figured out from the start—you can always pivot.

Tune in to hear:

• Kathy’s story of starting solids with her son (and why it didn’t go as planned)
• The moment she pressed the “reset button” on her approach
• Why confidence as a parent matters just as much as the nutrition itself
• How her background as a pediatric dietitian and personal experience with an eating disorder shaped her perspective
• The three feeding practices her family committed to from day one
• Why the first two years of feeding are so impactful for raising adventurous eaters

Doors Open for the Mini Me Method - Apply Now

Connect with Kathy:

@theminimedietitian

Website: https://theminimedietitian.com/

Grab my free Top Tips for Feeding Toddlers Guide