Toddlers spend a lot of their time learning how to move their bodies in new ways—everything from running to jumping to climbing to drawing.  To advance their motor skills, toddlers count on their rapidly developing brain and muscles—and lots of practice.

Good nutrition is important for proper motor development. In fact, studies have shown that poor nutrition during the second year of life is associated with slower achievement of motor milestones.

Which biofactors help motoring toddlers get the fuel that they need?  A diet that supplies supplemental energy with a balanced amount of macronutrients—protein, carbohydrates, and fat has been shown to help toddlers reach motor milestones.  Children aged 1 to 3 years can benefit from consuming a dietary supplement with calories from a balanced distribution of nutrients each day.  

Iron is also essential to ensuring proper motor function.  This biofactor plays a part in many processes inside the body, including carrying oxygen in the blood.  Because toddlers' physical and mental development is so rapid, their need for iron is greatly increased.  Unfortunately, toddlers can be vulnerable to iron deficiency, which can lead to delays in motor development.