Nutrition & Teeth

Only breastmilk or formula through 3 months

• 4-6 Months: can begin purees and cereals (talk to your healthcare provider first)

  • Readiness signs: sitting up in high chair, good head control

• 7-9 Months: soft table food, allow explore food and self-feed, holding own bottle

  • Majority of nutrition still breastmilk or formula

• 10-12 Months: begin practice drinking from an open cup, using straws, self-feed, enjoying 3 meals a day (plus snacks)

• 13-18 Months: eats most foods, can begin cow’s milk (with healthcare provider permission), cut foods in small cubes or strips, begin to eat with utensils

• 24-36 Months: offer variety of foods continuously, follow a meal and snack schedule

• Typically eat 3 meals and 2-3 snacks a day

• Continue offering variety of foods

• Avoid chocolate milk, juice and gummy snacks (talk to your dentist for more information)

• Low-fat milk and water for drinks

• Encourage healthy eating habits and do not force to finish meal

• Switch it up! Try serving meals or snacks in a cupcake pan or ice cube tray. Use toothpicks or tongs, too!