Fattening up daughter in a healthful way?

[cutiemama]

My 4 year old DD is really skinny. She's 28 lbs and just below the 10th percentile. She's of average height and a very active child with quite a good appetite.

I really can't compain about her not eating as she eats 3 meals a day and 2 snacks. Dinner seems to be the hardest meal but as I read about other moms' dinner dilemas, I can't compain again. One thing to add is that she doesn't eat meat at all and has never even tasted it (we've tried but she won't touch it). She typically eats quite healthfully (lots of low fat cheese, whole grain breads, poultry products and lots and lots of fruits and veggies).  She does get an occasional junkfood "treat" a few times per week when she's with grandma.  

The problem for me is that really she looks so frail and could definitely stand to put on a few pounds. Any suggestions on adding some meat my tiny girl's bones in a productive and healthful manner? I know I could just give her lots of treats but obviously I don't want to be counterproductive and have her develop the opposite weight problem.

Last little tidbit of info- even at age 4, DD's become sensitive to anyone and everyone calling her "skinny" so part of my quest is for her own self esteem.

[Renee Radenberg]

It is great that your child has a good appetite and eats 3 meals / 2 snacks daily. If she is not eating meat then I suggest other protein sources, for example: dairy products (yogurt, milk, ice cream), soy products, rice and beans, and macaroni and cheese. Milkshakes are a very good snack and children love to be a part of making them. All it takes is milk or soymilk, ice cream and some banana (any fruit). Whip it up in a blender and you have a drink packed with protein and high calories (if used regular dairy products).
Hope this helps. Thank you for asking a question on the forum.

[cutiemama]

Thanks for your suggestions. Everyone tells me to give her milkshakes I just never thought that that was such a good idea to get her into the habit of having ice cream on a daily basis. Do I need to watch her cholesterol at this age?

[Clarissairene]

[Clarissairene]

Milkshake is a great idea! I cant get my son to eat veggies and fruits. I was at Sams club the other night and this man was selling some high end blenders. I wont buy one but he gave me an idea. He made this yummy ice cream milkshake with soy milk, a pack of sugar free vanilla pudding powder, fresh carrots, and ice. You couldnt even taste the carrot!

Also, My mom makes these "protien" shakes for her and my dad. Too mysterious for me to try but I know she adds milk, ice, peanut butter, bananas.... they love it.

[mum2beagain]

I would use regular cheese, full fat milk etc rather than low fat at 4 years old. You can also add good quality olive oil to things like mashed potato, casseroles, pasta etc another way too get healthy fats into her.

[Renee Radenberg]

Milkshakes can be made to be very high calorie, using regular dairy products or lower in calories, using non-fat dairy or soy products. Regardless of what dairy products you use, it is still high in protein. It is recommended not to limit fat intake for children under the age of 3-4 years old due to brain development. Presently Cholesterol does not have be watched, however, if you have a history of heart disease in your family you can start to introduce lower fat products in a year or so.