The first two years of life are crucial for a child’s growth, brain development, and long-term health. Proper nutrition during this time supports physical development, builds healthy eating habits, and strengthens the immune system. Feeding infants and toddlers appropriately means understanding when to introduce new foods, how to respond to hunger cues, and how to build a balanced diet.
Here are essential feeding recommendations for babies and toddlers from birth to 24 months.
0–6 Months: Breast Milk or Formula Only
For the first 6 months, breast milk or infant formula provides all the nutrients your baby needs.
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Breastfeeding is recommended exclusively for the first 6 months by organizations like the WHO and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), if possible.
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Formula feeding is a safe and healthy alternative when breastfeeding isn’t an option or needs to be supplemented.
Feeding Tips:
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Feed on demand—usually every 2–4 hours.
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Look for hunger cues like sucking on hands, rooting, or fussiness.
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Avoid giving water, juice, or solid foods at this stage.
Breastfed infants may need a vitamin D supplement (400 IU daily) starting soon after birth, as breast milk may not provide enough.
6–12 Months: Introduce Solid Foods + Continue Breastfeeding/Formula
Around 6 months, babies are developmentally ready for solids. They should be able to sit up with support, hold their head steady, and show interest in food.
First Foods to Offer:
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Iron-rich options like iron-fortified cereals, pureed meats, or legumes.
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Soft fruits and vegetables (e.g., mashed banana, cooked carrots).
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Plain full-fat yogurt or cottage cheese in small amounts.
Introduce one new food at a time to watch for allergic reactions. Wait 3–5 days before adding another new item.
Feeding Tips:
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Continue breast milk or formula until at least 12 months.
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Offer solids 1–2 times daily, increasing frequency as baby grows.
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Encourage self-feeding with soft finger foods around 8–9 months.
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Offer sips of water in a cup during meals.
By 9–12 months, your baby should be eating a variety of textures and flavors, preparing for a family-style diet.
12–24 Months: Transition to Family Foods
After their first birthday, toddlers begin to eat more independently and transition to regular meals with the family.
Feeding Goals:
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Offer 3 balanced meals and 1–2 snacks each day.
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Include foods from all food groups: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein (meat, beans, eggs), and dairy.
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Continue breastfeeding if desired, or switch from formula to whole cow’s milk (about 16–24 oz per day).
Feeding Tips:
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Cut food into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking.
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Limit added sugar and salt. Avoid honey until after age 1 (risk of botulism).
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Encourage self-feeding with spoons, forks, and cups.
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Let your toddler decide how much to eat—don’t pressure them to clean their plate.
Picky eating is common at this stage. Stay patient, offer a variety of foods, and model healthy eating habits.
Common Allergens & Introducing Them Safely
Introduce common allergens (e.g., peanuts, eggs, dairy, wheat, soy, fish) starting around 6 months, once other solids have been tolerated.
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Introduce one allergen at a time in small amounts.
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Watch for symptoms like rash, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
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If your child has severe eczema or a known allergy, consult a pediatrician before introducing certain foods.
Final Thoughts
Feeding from birth to age 2 is about more than just nutrition—it’s about setting the stage for lifelong healthy eating habits. Responsive feeding, variety, and patience go a long way in helping your child grow and thrive. Work with your pediatrician to ensure your baby is meeting milestones and nutritional needs, and remember: every child develops at their own pace.
