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Safe Foods for 12 to 24 Months

At one-year-old, parents begin weaning their child off breast milk. Between the ages of 12 and 24 months, progress your child's diet toward one more similar to your own. Eating habits and preferences are set early in life, so adopt healthy choices and aim to expand his palette with a variety of foods. Fine motor skills are developing at this time, so finger foods are a great option. Try giving your child a child-friendly utensil to eat with during this time period.

  1. Dairy

    • Between the ages of 12 and 24 months, your child's bones are growing rapidly. Dairy is an important source of calcium, essential for promoting healthy bone growth and development. Vitamin D, also provided by dairy products, aids the body's absorption and utilization of calcium. Your child needs two to three servings of dairy per day. Whole milk, cheese, cottage cheese and yogurt are good choices.

    Fruits and Vegetables

    • Highly nutrient dense, fruits and vegetables are the best source of vitamins and minerals essential for your child's development. In addition, fruits and vegetables provide a valuable source of dietary fiber, important for healthy digestion and regulating proper insulin response. At one- to two-years old, your child requires two to three portions of fruits and vegetables each day. Experiment with different fruits and vegetables, introducing your child to new flavors and textures and ensuring they receive the full range of vitamins and minerals. A typical serving may consist of half a sliced apple, half a banana or 1/4 cup of cooked peas.

    Grains

    • During a very active stage of life, grains provide a great source of energy as well as being packed full of B vitamins, dietary fiber and important minerals, such as folic acid. A serving of grains, such as half a bagel or several rice crackers make for a great snack. At meal times, 1/4 cup of rice or pasta or 1/3 cup of oats or cereal are good choices. At one- to two-years-old, your child requires five to six portions of grains every day.

    Protein

    • Ensure your child consumes at least two servings of protein per day, essential for tissue maintenance and growth. Eggs, either hard-boiled or scrambled, provide a great source of protein. Other serving suggestions include small chunks of fish, poultry, beans and tofu.

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