New Delhi, May 14: Proper development in children is closely linked to age-appropriate and balanced nutrition. Many parents believe that milk is sufficient for infants, but after six months, exclusive reliance on milk does not provide complete nutrition. This is where supplementary food becomes essential for a child’s physical and mental growth.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development recently highlighted on its official social media account that as a child reaches six months, their nutritional needs begin to increase. At this stage, parents should introduce light, homemade, and nutritious foods alongside milk. Suitable options include thick lentils with rice, khichdi, green vegetables, yogurt, ghee, and a small amount of oil. Additionally, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables like bananas, papayas, carrots, and pumpkins are highly beneficial. These foods provide essential vitamins and energy.
Initially, it is advisable to offer very small portions of food, starting with about 3 to 4 tablespoons, and monitor the child’s response. If the child is eating well and digesting the food, the quantity can gradually be increased. Typically, a 6 to 7-month-old can have a small bowl of food twice a day.
As children grow, their appetite and needs expand. For 7 to 8-month-olds, two bowls of food per day are appropriate. For children aged 9 to 11 months, this can be increased to three bowls. By the time they are 12 to 24 months old, they may require four to five bowls of light and nutritious food daily.
It is also crucial for parents to recognize their child’s hunger cues. Every child has different hunger levels, so rather than forcing food, parents should respond to these signals. Feeding should be a playful and loving experience to foster interest in eating.
Infants should be breastfed first, followed by solid food, ensuring they receive both types of nutrition.
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