As parents, we always want the best for our little ones, especially when it comes to their health. With the start of the new year, it’s the perfect time to establish healthy habits for your baby or toddler that will set them up for a lifetime of wellness. Here are some tips for promoting wellness with babies and toddlers, including preparing your own baby/toddler food.
1. Breastfeed or use Formula to Promote wellness
Breastmilk or formula is the best source of nutrition for babies up to six months old. Breastmilk contains all the necessary nutrients that a baby needs and can help reduce the risk of infections, allergies, and illnesses. Another immune booster you can use on your little ones is Mary Ruth Organics. Her products are all-natural and boost children’s immune systems. My kids love the berry taste of the toddler vitamins. from infants all the up to adulthood. So you and your little ones can be organically healthy together! If you want to learn more about breastfeeding, without the hassle, please check out our article here.
2. Start solids at six months:
Babies should start solid foods at around six months of age. Start with iron-fortified rice cereal, pureed fruits, and vegetables. Gradually introduce new foods, one at a time, and watch for any signs of allergies or reactions. One way you can afford some of these foods is through a program called WIC. Check with your local resources to see if available in your town.Â
Prepare Your Own Food
Making your own baby/toddler food is easy, affordable, and healthy. You can control the ingredients and ensure that your baby is getting fresh, nutritious food. Simply cook, puree, and freeze fruits, vegetables, and meats. I don’t think I can live without the Baby Moov food prep station. You can cook, steam, and blend the food in one device. You can set a timer and the food will be done without you watching it. I also love love love the Kiinde Food Maker Set. Everything you need is all there to prepare your pouches. Another device I use to make food pouches is the Infantino Food Prep Station. Your baby and/or toddler can have the convenience of a pouch without all the lead and chemicals that come with some of the others. You can refrigerate or freeze them. If you want more food prep ideas and hacks, check out our blog post: How To Prep Meals For A Whole Month
4. Offer a variety of foods:
Babies and toddlers need a variety of healthy foods to grow and develop. Offer a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and snacks. If you head over to amazon fresh, you can find a variety of healthy foods and snacks for your little ones.Â
5. Encourage self-feeding:
Encourage your baby or toddler to feed themselves with their fingers or a spoon. This helps develop fine motor skills and encourages independence. Make sure you wash their hands with soap and water before and after meals to prevent unwanted germs. We love this video to help us wash our hands
6. Make mealtimes enjoyable:
Mealtimes should be a positive and enjoyable experience for babies and toddlers. Sit down together as a family, turn off distractions, and engage in conversation. Offer praise and encouragement for trying new foods. We try to make a big deal when our little ones try a new food for the first time. Another idea, that is if your little ones are a bit older, you can have them help you put the food on the table. Maybe its just utensils, or napkins, something to get them excited and happy to help.
7. Staying active is a great way to promote healthy wellness:
Babies and toddlers need plenty of opportunities for physical activity. Encourage crawling, walking, and exploring. Take walks together, play in the park, or dance to music. You can check out our article on
8. Establish a bedtime routine:
Promoting wellness with babies and toddlers is about establishing healthy habits that will last a lifetime. Breastfeeding or using formula, starting solids at six months, preparing your own baby/toddler food, offering a variety of foods, encouraging self-feeding, making mealtimes enjoyable, staying active, and establishing a bedtime routine are all important steps you can take to help your little one grow up healthy and happy. It’s a new year, so why not start healthy habits now?
As usual please let me know what you think and what you do to promote healthy habits in the comments.Â
I just want you to know, there is no such thing as perfect parenting, just suggestions.
                                      Tee
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