Children’s Diet and Nutrition (6–12 Months): A Complete Guide
Your baby’s first year is full of milestones—and one of the most important is introducing solid foods. Between 6 to 12 months, your little one’s nutritional needs grow rapidly. Here’s a complete guide to help you plan a healthy, balanced diet during this exciting stage.
6–8 Months: The Beginning of Solids
At around 6 months, babies are ready to explore new textures and flavors alongside breast milk or formula.
Start with:
Single-grain cereals (rice or oats) mixed with breast milk or formula
Pureed fruits and vegetables (apple, banana, sweet potato, carrot, pumpkin)
Mashed pulses (moong dal or lentils) for protein
Tips:
✔ Introduce one food at a time to watch for allergies.
✔ Begin with smooth, pureed consistency and gradually move to thicker textures.
✔ Continue breastfeeding—it remains the main source of nutrition.
8–10 Months: Exploring Textures and Flavors
Now your baby can handle more variety and soft solids.
Add these foods:Soft, mashed grains like khichdi, upma, or dal rice
Cooked vegetables in mashed or tiny soft pieces
Fruit chunks like papaya, avocado, or banana
Egg yolk (well-cooked) and paneer for extra protein
Tips:
✔ Encourage self-feeding with finger foods.
✔ Offer small sips of water in a sipper cup.
✔ Avoid sugar, salt, and honey at this stage.
10–12 Months: Transition to Family Foods
Your little one is almost ready to join the family table!
Add:
Soft chapati soaked in dal or milk
Small pieces of fruits and soft-cooked veggies
Boiled rice, poha, or idli
Homemade soups and porridges
Tips:
✔ Encourage independent eating under supervision.
✔ Keep mealtime fun and pressure-free.
✔ Offer 3 main meals + 2 snacks daily.
Important Nutrition Notes
Iron-rich foods (lentils, spinach, egg yolk) are vital for brain development.
Calcium and healthy fats (ghee, curd, paneer) support growth.
Hydration is essential—offer water frequently, especially in hot weathe
Avoid These Foods
Cow’s milk (until 1 year)
Honey (risk of botulism)
Whole nuts (choking hazard)
Salty, sugary, or processed food
Final Thoughts
Each baby grows at their own pace. Be patient, stay consistent, and enjoy this journey of discovery together! Good nutrition in the first year lays the foundation for a healthy and happy future.
