Intelligence

Iron plays a vital role in a baby’s growth and development, particularly in supporting healthy brain function and red blood cell production. During the first six months of life, babies typically get enough iron from breast milk or iron-fortified formula. However, as they grow and start to consume solid foods, it becomes essential to introduce iron-rich foods for babies to ensure they meet their nutritional needs. As parents start introducing solid foods, understanding which foods are rich in iron and how to prepare them safely is important for building a …

As parents, it’s natural to worry when your child skips a meal. However, the reality is that it’s okay for children to skip meals occasionally. This doesn’t necessarily mean your child dislikes the food or that you’ve done something wrong. If you’ve set appropriate meal times, prepared a balanced plate, and approached the meal with a positive attitude, yet your child refuses to eat, it likely means they don’t have an appetite at that moment. Here’s why respecting their choice is crucial. 1. Understanding Children’s Eating Patterns Children, especially toddlers, …

As parents, we often find ourselves in power struggles with our toddlers, especially when it comes to mealtimes. These battles can lead to frustration for both parents and children. A practical approach to avoid these conflicts is by following the Division of Responsibility in feeding. This method, especially relevant for preschoolers and toddlers over 15-16 months old, helps maintain a healthy and happy feeding environment. Understanding the Division of Responsibility The Division of Responsibility in feeding is a concept that emphasizes shared roles between parents and children during mealtimes: • Parents/Caregivers: …

Eating seasonally is a powerful way to introduce variety, optimize nutrition, and foster eco-awareness in children’s diets. Seasonal foods are often fresher, more flavorful, and nutrient-dense, as they are harvested at their peak. This practice supports local farming and reduces environmental impact due to shorter transport distances. Why Seasonal Eating Matters: Nutritional Richness: Seasonal produce tends to be higher in essential vitamins and minerals.Taste and Variety: Fresh, in-season foods provide diverse flavors, encouraging children to try new dishes.Eco-friendly Choice: Local, seasonal eating reduces carbon footprint and promotes sustainability. Example of …

Good nutrition is the cornerstone of a child’s growth and development, with gut health playing a pivotal role. Our gut houses trillions of microorganisms that are key to digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and bolstering the immune system. Especially in early childhood, a balanced gut microbiome is vital for proper development and disease prevention. Why Gut Health Matters for Kids: • Digestion and Nutrition: A healthy gut ensures efficient breakdown and absorption of food, crucial for energy and growth.• Immunity Boost: A balanced gut microbiome supports the immune system, reducing infection …

Sleep and food are deeply interconnected in a baby’s development, influencing each other in several ways. Understanding this relationship is crucial for creating a harmonious routine that supports your baby’s growth, health, and well-being. The Connection Between Sleep and Food Energy Regulation: Adequate sleep helps regulate the body’s energy use, which influences feeding patterns. A well-rested baby may have more predictable hunger cues, making it easier to establish a consistent feeding schedule. Mood and Appetite: Sleep affects mood and, by extension, appetite. A tired baby might be too fussy to …

Introducing solid food to your baby is an exciting milestone that opens up a whole new world of flavours and textures. Cheese, with its rich nutritional profile, can be a wonderful addition to your baby’s diet. However, not all cheeses are created equal, especially when it comes to feeding little ones. It’s crucial to choose types that are safe and suitable for babies, focusing on those that are low in sodium and free from harmful bacteria. Here, we’ll explore the safe types of cheese for babies and recommend some popular …

Parenting is a beautifully complex journey filled with its highs and lows, challenges and triumphs, and a lot of learning along the way. One of the most significant aspects of this journey is feeding your child, especially when it comes to starting baby on solids. From the early days of breastfeeding or formula feeding to introducing solids to baby and beyond, each stage comes with its own set of challenges and joys. Particularly, when we venture into the world of solids and baby-led weaning, the diversity in children’s acceptance of …

Wheat is a staple food in many cultures and can be an excellent addition to a baby’s diet, especially when practicing baby-led weaning. Introducing wheat for babies, particularly those under one year, should be done with care to ensure it’s suitable for their developing digestive systems and to monitor for any allergic reactions. Here’s a comprehensive guide on incorporating wheat into your baby’s diet, including its potential as an wheat allergy in babies, similar foods that may trigger allergies, and the best ways to offer wheat to babies. Wheat as …

Choosing the best high chair for your baby is a crucial step in their journey of starting solids. It’s not just about having a place for your baby to eat; it’s about promoting a safe, comfortable, and engaging environment for your little one to explore and enjoy a variety of foods. Tips for Choosing the Perfect High Chair for Your Baby-Led Weaning Adventures  1. Safety First The safety of your child is paramount. Look for a high chair for your baby that comes with a sturdy base to prevent tipping. …

Introducing solid foods to baby is a significant milestone that lays the foundation for healthy eating habits. This journey from exclusive breastfeeding or formula feeding to incorporating solid foods into your baby’s diet is often referred to as weaning.  Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help new parents navigate this exciting phase of introducing solids to baby with confidence. Step 1: Recognising Readiness for Starting Solids  Before you embark on baby-led weaning journey, it’s crucial to ensure your baby is ready for solids. Most babies show signs of readiness around …