Evidence-based nutrition information to support your child's healthy growth and development at every stage.
Understanding your child's nutritional needs at each developmental stage
Introduction to solid foods
This stage marks the introduction of solid foods. Your baby's digestive system is developing, and they're learning to move food from the front to the back of their tongue. Focus on single-ingredient, iron-rich foods.
Feeding Frequency: Start with 1-2 meals per day, gradually increasing. Continue breast milk or formula as primary nutrition source.
Developing oral motor skills
Your baby is developing the pincer grasp and can handle thicker textures and soft finger foods. This is an ideal time to introduce a wider variety of flavors and textures to support oral motor development.
Feeding Frequency: 2-3 meals per day plus 1-2 snacks. Continue breast milk or formula, but solid foods become increasingly important.
Becoming more independent
Your baby is becoming more independent and can eat many of the same foods as the rest of the family (with appropriate modifications). They're developing chewing skills and can handle more complex textures.
Feeding Frequency: 3 meals plus 2-3 snacks daily. Breast milk or formula can continue, but solid foods should provide the majority of nutrition.
Understanding the role of key nutrients in your child's development
Iron is crucial for your child's cognitive development and immune function. Iron deficiency in early childhood can lead to developmental delays and learning difficulties. There are two types of iron: heme iron (from animal sources, more easily absorbed) and non-heme iron (from plant sources).
Pro Tip: Serve iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources (citrus, bell peppers, tomatoes) to increase absorption by up to 300%.
The first two years of life are critical for brain development, and healthy fats play an essential role. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are vital for neural development, visual acuity, and cognitive function.
Adequate calcium intake supports bone and tooth development, nerve function, and muscle contraction. The body's ability to absorb calcium is highest during childhood, making this a critical period for building strong bones.