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Infants, Children and Youth

Infants and Children

Since early 2022, families in British Columbia have been experiencing a limited supply of infant formula. Learn about what you can do if you can't find your baby’s usual formula.

Healthy eating and regular physical activity are important for your child's growth and development. Learn about how to support your child to be active and the benefits of physical activity. Find information about healthy eating below.

Infants

Breastfeeding

Human milk is the only food or drink your baby needs for the first 6 months. Learn more about the benefits of breastfeeding, when to offer your baby human milk and how to know if your baby is getting enough milk. 

Formula feeding

Parents may give their baby infant formula for a variety of reasons. Learn how to choose infant formula, what equipment you need to prepare it and how to store it safely.

Starting solid foods

At about 6 months of age, your baby needs more nutrients and is ready to start trying solid foods. Find out what foods to introduce first, and how to prepare and offer them. These resources also provide tips and recipes to help get you started.

Food allergy

Food allergy happens when the body's immune system treats a protein in a food as harmful. Learn more about food allergies including how to reduce the risk.

Toddlers and Preschoolers

You play an important role in helping your child build healthy eating habits and skills. Find out how to help toddlers and preschoolers learn to eat a variety of foods:

Food safety

Younger children are at a higher risk of foodborne illness and choking. To reduce the risk, foods should be prepared in a safe way and certain foods should be limited or avoided.

Children and Youth

Healthy eating is about more than what your child eats. It’s also about where, when, why and how they eat. Whether your child is at home, at school, or on the go, you have a role in supporting healthy eating. Learn about nutritious food choices, the benefits of eating together and how to involve your child in meal preparation.

Growth and Development

Your child will grow and gain skills at their own pace as healthy growth is different for every child. Find out more about growth and development.

As a parent, you can promote healthy growth by following the Division of Responsibility (DOR) when feeding your child. This involves trusting that your child will eat what they need to grow in a way that is right for them. You can also support your child to have a healthy attitude towards their body, food, and eating through what you say and do. Learn more:

Weight-related Conditions and Concerns

Disordered eating and eating disorders

Some children find themselves struggling with unhealthy thoughts and behaviours towards food, weight, body size and shape. If you are concerned that your child is experiencing disordered eating, speak to your health care provider. Getting support early may help to prevent an eating disorder from developing. Learn about eating disorders and where to find help.

Obesity

Weight is not simply a result of what your child eats or how active they are. Genetics, health conditions, stress, sleep quality and other factors can also influence weight. Eating well and being active can benefit your child’s health regardless of their weight. 

Speak with your health care provider if you are concerned about your child’s health or well-being. If you have questions about or would like support with eating or physical activity, call 8-1-1 to speak with a registered dietitian or qualified exercise professional.  Learn more about healthy eating and activity programs for children and youth in BC.  

Weight bias and stigma

Many children face weight bias and stigma in the form of weight bullying or teasing. This can have a negative impact on their psychological, social and physical health. You can support your child by learning about weight bias. The Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health offers resources for kids, teens and their caregivers.

Useful Resources

Baby's Best Chance: Parents' Handbook of Pregnancy and Baby Care

Baby's Best Chance is a reference guide for parents. Topics covered include pregnancy, birth and parenting a baby up to six months of age. The guide provides easy-to-read tips on having a healthy pregnancy and giving your baby a good start in life.

Toddler's First Steps: A Best Chance Guide to Parenting Your 6-36 Month–Old Child

As your child grows, there is another guide called Toddler's First Steps: A Best Chance Guide to Parenting Your 6- to 36-Month-Old Child. This guide covers child development, healthy eating, health and well-being, parenting and safety for children.

Raising Our Healthy Kids

Raising Our Healthy Kids is a series of 60-90 second videos with health information for parents and care providers. The following are videos on nutrition and healthy eating for your child:

Last Updated: June 2023