A–Z Glossary

Infant botulism

Botulism is a serious illness that infants can develop from honey, which is not appropriate before 12 months of age.

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First foods for baby in the US

First foods for baby in the US

When babies are ready to start complementary foods Federal guidance and American Academy of Pediatrics guidance generally support beginning complementary foods around 6 months. Foods should not be introduced before 4 months unless specifically directed by a qualified healthcare professional. The appropriate timing is based on maturation of oral-motor skills and postural control, not simply […]

Best first foods for babies

Best first foods for babies

When babies are ready for first foods Most infants begin complementary foods at approximately 6 months. Age alone is not enough: readiness reflects neuromuscular control and oral-motor skills. A baby who is ready can usually sit upright with support and maintain stable head and neck control. The infant should also show interest in food, open […]

Balanced Meals for Babies Without Meat

Balanced Meals for Babies Without Meat

Start With the Nutrients Babies Need Most After about 6 months, infants need increasing amounts of nutrients that may be difficult to obtain from a limited or poorly planned vegetarian diet. Iron is a central concern because infant iron stores begin to decline during this period. Iron supports hemoglobin production, oxygen transport, neurodevelopment, and cellular […]

Snacks for babies introduction

Snacks for babies introduction

When can babies start having snacks? Solid foods are generally introduced at about 6 months, when a baby shows developmental readiness. Relevant signs include sitting with support and maintaining head and neck control, opening the mouth for food, bringing objects to the mouth, and swallowing food rather than consistently pushing it out with the tongue. […]

Homemade baby food safety tips

Homemade baby food safety tips

Start with clean hands and a controlled workspace Infants can become ill from relatively small amounts of foodborne pathogens, so hygiene is the foundation of homemade food preparation. Wash your hands with soap and running water before handling ingredients, after using the bathroom, after changing diapers, after touching raw meat or eggs, and whenever your […]

Over the counter meds for babies

Over the counter meds for babies

Why medicine safety is different for babies Infants undergo rapid physiologic change during the first year of life. Hepatic metabolism, renal clearance, body-water distribution, and the ability to communicate adverse effects are all different from those of older children. A medicine that is reasonable for a preschooler may be unsuitable for a newborn or young […]

How to choose safe baby toys

How to choose safe baby toys

Start with age, ability, and setting Age recommendations are an important starting point, but they are not a substitute for observing your individual baby. A label such as “6 months and up” generally reflects expected motor skills, oral exploration, and the size or complexity of components. Consider whether your baby can sit, roll, crawl, pull, […]