Family mealtimes are important for social interaction as well as from a nutritional point of view. For older children it's an opportunity to share what has happened during the day and to instil good table manners.
For toddlers we need to concentrate on nutrition and not worry about table manners quite so much.
So that we don't become irritated with small children we have to remember that a toddler:
Mealtimes should be relaxed and enjoyable so avoid making battles over food and eating and never force a child to eat.
Offer child-sized portions – a 1/4 or 1/3 of an adult portion size – and a wide variety of foods. Allow the toddler to choose from the foods available and don't worry how he eats it. Getting the food in is the important thing, not how it's done. As a toddler's stomach is very small and they use a lot of energy so nutirous mid-morning and afternoon snacks will keep her going.
By letting your toddler eat in any order or combination, you will be encouraging independance which is what she craves. Similarly don’t help unless your toddler asks for it. If she does ask, don’t feed her, just assist by loading the spoon, for example.
Let the meal end when your toddler has had enough. Be assured that your child will not starve. if she is energetic and is growing well there is no need to worry.