Toddlers, who are children age 1 through about 3, are constantly learning about and exploring their surroundings. They are eager to discover new things and are old enough to learn basic information about their health. The most effective way to teach toddlers about health is to keep things simple, hands-on and fun. Lessons should be short because their ability to pay attention is short-lived. Repetition is also important, so even after the initial lesson remind them of what was learned in everyday situations.

Healthy Eating
There are several ways to teach toddlers about healthy eating. Take your toddler to the grocery store and talk about healthy food choices while shopping. Play areas should include healthy pretend-food choices such as fruits and vegetables. If you are unable to find a toy collection with healthy foods, make one out of clay with your toddler and discuss why the foods are healthy. Involve your toddler in meal preparation and give her simple tasks such as stirring cold items or adding ingredients such as seeds or raisins to a salad.

Fitness
Toddlers are active explorers, so it is easy teaching them about fitness. Most kids love to go for walks and look at the natural surroundings. If you have a park or forest near your home, plan short nature hikes with your toddler. On days when the weather is too rainy or too cold to spend time outdoors, play safe, active games inside. Kids can run or jump in place, follow exercise videos designed for children or learn stretching and simple yoga poses. Adults should exercise with toddlers so the children learn by example and do not view exercise as a chore. When movement is fun, there is little effort required for making it a habit.

Body Image
In addition to learning about the world around them, toddlers also enjoy exploring their own bodies. It is important to begin positive body image message early. Have children draw pictures of their bodies and proudly display the pictures on a bulletin board or wall. On a large piece of paper, trace around your toddler's body and let her color the outline. While working, talk about body parts and offer positive messages about body image.

Dental Health
Your toddler can have his first dental visit as early as a year old. This is an exciting time for a young child and a great way to kick off an activity plan about dental health. It also eases fear of visiting the dentist when checkups are a habit early in life. At home, teach your child good dental hygiene habits, brushing and flossing together in the morning and before bed. If your child eats lunch at home, he can brush following the midday meal or before taking an afternoon nap.