Nutritious, balanced meals are essential for a child’s growth and development now and later in life. The foundation for eating fruits, vegetables, healthy meals and staying physically active starts with you.
Infants: Your 4- to 6-month-old infant will show signs of readiness to start eating stage 1 pureed baby food when they place their toys towards their mouth and get excited seeing you eat food. Because babies develop at their own pace, always consult your child’s pediatrician to learn how to safely introduce solid foods. Introduce one fruit or vegetable at a time to observe if they may be allergic to that specific fruit or vegetable.
Toddlers: Offer two or three options of fruit for a snack and give them the one they select.
Preschoolers: Offer a variety of fruits and vegetables during mealtimes. Support your child’s interests once you learn their favorites and provide those weekly.
Family Mealtime and Snacks:
- Involve your child in the meal planning process. Make a list, shop for the items together and ask your child to help prepare the meal or snack.
- Model eating fruit or vegetable snacks and talk about the importance of healthy eating habits.
- Health and Wellbeing is a development domain outlined in the Florida Early Learning and Developmental Standards.
- The Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services provides food and nutrition resources for families.
