Your baby’s first years are full of exciting milestones—and making sure they get the right nutrition is one of the most important. Dairy foods can be a simple, delicious way to give your little one the nourishment they need to grow, learn, and thrive.
Around 6 months, most babies are ready to start exploring foods alongside breast milk or iron-fortified formula. These early first bites from foods like cheese and yogurt add important nutrients that help support healthy growth and brain development. By the time your child celebrates their first birthday, they’re ready to begin the big transition from breast milk or formula to whole milk and other dairy foods.
And dairy isn’t only beneficial to your baby once they are 6 months old, but it has great benefits to mom and baby too during pregnancy and breast feeding. What’s consumed during pregnancy can impact a child’s future. Consuming dairy during pregnancy can be an integral part of a balanced diet, and support the neurodevelopment of the fetus.
Dairy is packed with key nutrients for you and your child. From pregnancy and breast feeding to the first two years of life, dairy is there to support growth, development and become a key part of a healthy, balanced diet. Here are a few examples of just how much dairy can help your little ones to thrive.
Want to learn more or find some tips on how to introduce dairy into your baby’s diet? Check out some great resources that are designed to help parents navigate dairy nutrition.
Prenatal Nutrition –Dairy and baby’s brain development.
Airplane Choo Choo – A guide to feeding your baby for the first two years.
Infant and Toddler Nutrition – Tips for mealtime routines.
