How to get toddler to sit for meals

My almost 3yo LO likes to run around and get into anything and everything in between bites. It’s exhausting. 1. No longer using booster on chair with the straps bc she hated it 2. Tried booster pillow and she likes it but will still climb down and run around 3. Tried timing meals better to make sure she was hungry enough to want to stay put but doesn’t always work 4. Tried encouraging “heavy work” before meals to help regulate body before mealtime but really hard to do everyday and before every meal!! Suggestions? I know toddlers can’t be expected to sit for long stretches but she’s doing this at school too and teacher keeps mentioning it…

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I have the same issue and would to follow advice if possible!!

I had a special table for my boys that was kid sized that they liked to sit at. I also didn't allow running around so never set that prescient. It will be more challenging since child has been running around. A dessert or special cup/ dishes for only when at table could help. I would try starting out with snacks. Helping cook can help too.

What works for us is having something that will entice him to sit at the table: a favorite food to get him TO the table, a toy he’s been liking lately, or I read him a short story while he eats if I’m able to. If she’s having trouble staying at the table at school, maybe have her help you pack her lunch so she gets excited to have it at school? I don’t know if this would be a disaster but maybe pack a small sleeve of stickers for her to “decorate” her lunch box while she eats?

i was struggling with this really bad. we got my kids a little table with some chairs to sit at and it does help. granted, it gives them more freedom to get up. but even with my almost 2 year old, i noticed they sit a lot better at their own little table

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