Food and Nutrition
Eating well matters from the very start. A balanced mix of foods gives your little one the energy to grow quickly, supports their developing brain, keeps their immune system strong, and lays down healthy habits for life.
This page walks you through what to expect at each age — from a newborn’s first feeds to a five-year-old’s full meals — plus practical help with allergies, fussy eating, and when to ask for more support.
What good food does for your child
Stage by stage
Feeding through the early years
What feeding looks like changes a lot in the first few years. Here’s what to focus on at each age.
0–6 months
Feeding your newborn
Whether you choose breastfeeding or bottle feeding, your baby’s milk gives them everything they need to grow healthy and strong in the first months.
The best approach is responsive feeding — letting your baby guide you. Watch for hunger cues like lip smacking, sucking on hands, or rooting (turning their head as if looking for milk). Feed when they show these signs and stop when they seem full. It works for both breast and bottle, helps your baby feel safe, builds a strong bond, and supports their natural ability to eat the right amount.
6–12 months
Starting solid foods
Around 6 months, most babies start showing interest in what you’re eating — a sign they’re ready to try solid foods. It can feel a bit scary because of worries about choking, but it’s also an exciting milestone: your baby is ready to explore new tastes and textures and grow more independent.
1–5 years
Real meals, real choices
This is the move from finger foods to full meals — breakfast, lunch and dinner. Some foods aren’t safe for young children: salty snacks, sugary treats, honey, whole nuts and certain cheeses are best avoided.
Babies and toddlers also pick up tummy bugs from food more easily than adults, so simple steps — washing hands, cleaning surfaces, cooking food properly — make a real difference. The right drinks and the right cup matter too, both for healthy hydration and protecting little teeth.
