Feeding young children can feel rewarding, confusing, and sometimes stressful. From breast or bottle feeding to introducing solids and managing picky eating, every stage brings new questions.
This guide offers simple, practical information to help you understand what is typical for infants and toddlers, common feeding challenges, and where to find trusted support in York Region.
Feeding Infants (Birth to 12 Months)
During the first year, breastmilk or infant formula provides the nutrition your baby needs. Around six months of age, most babies are ready to begin solid foods while continuing breastmilk or formula.
Signs your baby may be ready for solids include:
- Sitting up with support
- Good head and neck control
- Showing interest in food
- Opening their mouth when food is offered
Iron-rich foods are important when starting solids. These can include iron-fortified infant cereal, pureed meats, beans, or lentils. New foods can be introduced one at a time so you can watch for any reactions.
For detailed guidance on feeding infants and starting solids, visit:
Feeding Toddlers (1 to 3 Years)
Toddlers are learning independence. It is common for appetite to change from day to day. Some days they may eat very little. Other days they may seem very hungry.
Helpful feeding tips for toddlers include:
- Offer regular meals and snacks at consistent times
- Serve a variety of foods from all food groups
- Let your child decide how much to eat from what is offered
- Model healthy eating by sitting and eating together when possible
- Avoid pressuring or forcing your child to eat
It is normal for toddlers to go through phases of picky eating. Repeated exposure to new foods, without pressure, can help children gradually accept them.
For nutrition information and parenting support, visit:
Parenting and Nutrition Supports – York Region
Common Feeding Challenges
Many families experience feeding challenges. Some common concerns include:
- Picky eating
- Refusing certain textures
- Concerns about weight gain
- Food allergies or suspected reactions
- Mealtime struggles and power battles
If your child is growing well and has energy to play and learn, small changes in appetite are usually normal. If you are unsure, it is always okay to ask questions.
When to Seek Additional Support
Consider speaking with a health professional or EarlyON Educator if:
- Your baby is not gaining weight as expected
- Your child consistently refuses entire food groups
- Mealtimes feel stressful or overwhelming
- You have concerns about allergies or feeding safety
You may also benefit from connecting with York Region’s Healthy Babies Healthy Children Program:
Healthy Babies Healthy Children Program
How EarlyON Can Help
EarlyON Educators can provide one-on-one guidance about feeding routines, introducing solids, managing picky eating, and creating positive mealtime experiences. We can also help you connect with public health services or other community supports if needed.
Contact us to speak with an EarlyON Educator or visit a centre to talk with someone in person.
You are not alone. Feeding challenges are common, and support is available.
