#asktheexpert hi what food shoul we give to my child he is 1year 6 months o hi I want to ask you what food we should be giving to virtual he is 1 years 6 month oldld

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Accepted Answer

For a one-year-six-month-old child and a six-year-old, you should focus on providing a balanced diet that supports their growth and development. Here’s a breakdown of what to include for each age group:

### **For a One-Year-Six-Month-Old:**

1. **Fruits and Vegetables:**
   - **Cooked or Soft Fruits:** Apples, pears, bananas, and peaches.
   - **Vegetables:** Steamed or cooked carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, and green beans.

2. **Proteins:**
   - **Meats:** Small pieces of chicken, beef, or fish.
   - **Eggs:** Scrambled or boiled eggs.
   - **Legumes:** Lentils or well-cooked beans.

3. **Dairy:**
   - **Milk:** Whole milk or fortified formula if still needed.
   - **Cheese and Yogurt:** Soft cheese and plain yogurt.

4. **Grains:**
   - **Cereals:** Fortified cereals, oatmeal.
   - **Bread:** Whole grain or soft bread.

5. **Snacks:**
   - **Healthy Options:** Soft fruit slices, yogurt, whole grain crackers.

### **For a Six-Year-Old:**

1. **Fruits and Vegetables:**
   - **Variety:** Fresh fruits like apples, berries, oranges, and vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers.
   - **Raw or Cooked:** Both raw and cooked vegetables are good.

2. **Proteins:**
   - **Meats:** Lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish.
   - **Eggs:** Boiled, scrambled, or in dishes like omelets.
   - **Legumes:** Beans, lentils, and chickpeas.

3. **Dairy:**
   - **Milk:** Low-fat or skim milk if recommended by your pediatrician.
   - **Cheese and Yogurt:** Variety of cheeses and plain or flavored yogurt.

4. **Grains:**
   - **Whole Grains:** Whole grain bread, pasta, rice, and cereals.

5. **Snacks:**
   - **Healthy Choices:** Nuts (if not a choking hazard), fruit, yogurt, and whole grain crackers.

### **General Tips:**

- **Balance:** Ensure that each meal contains a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
- **Hydration:** Offer water throughout the day and limit sugary drinks.
- **Portion Size:** Adjust portions to suit their age and appetite.
- **Variety:** Introduce a variety of foods to ensure they get a range of nutrients and to encourage healthy eating habits.

### **Consulting a Pediatrician:**

- **Individual Needs:** Always consider any dietary restrictions or allergies and consult with a pediatrician if you have concerns about their nutritional needs or if you’re planning to make significant changes to their diet.