0–6 months
Breast milk or formula only. No water, juice, or solids.
6–12 months
Start solids when baby can sit unsupported and shows interest. Offer iron-rich foods (meat, beans, fortified cereal) first.
Top allergens (peanut, egg, dairy) introduced early and often reduce allergy risk per NIAID guidelines.
No honey before 12 months. No cow's milk as a drink before 12 months.
Toddler (1–3 yr)
Division of responsibility: you decide what, when, where. They decide whether and how much.
Whole milk until 2 (unless overweight or family history), then transition to 1% or skim.
Limit juice to 4 oz/day; water as primary drink. No added sugar before 2 (AAP).
Preschool (3–5)
Offer the same family meal — kids self-regulate over a week, not a day.
Include a 'safe food' on the plate next to new foods to lower the pressure.