Nutrition

Yogurt, cheese, milk…dairy brings up a lot of "wait, is this okay?" moments for parents introducing solids. And it's a fair question, especially since cow's milk as a drink should wait until after your baby's first birthday, but yogurt and cheese can be offered once your baby is ready for solids.

Here's some good news to ease the overwhelm! Research now points toward introducing allergens early, including eggs (link to the blog post) and dairy, rather than playing the waiting game. Early introduction may actually help lower your baby's risk of a milk allergy, and dairy also packs in nutrients your baby needs for healthy growth.
If there's one food that sends parents into a slight panic, it's eggs. Trust me, I get it! For years we were told to hold off on common allergens like eggs and peanuts, so it feels almost backwards to hear the opposite now.

But guess what? Research has flipped the script. Introducing eggs early in your baby's first year may actually help lower their risk of developing an egg allergy, not raise it. That's why the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the USDA Dietary Guidelines, and allergy experts now all agree that earlier is better than later.
Starting solids is a moment many parents look forward to—and one that can bring a wave of questions. You might find yourself wondering: Is my baby ready? Should I start with purées or finger foods? What if they gag? What if they don’t like it?

Take a breath. You’re not alone, and you’re doing great.

At Treehouse Pediatrics, we’re here to guide you through this exciting stage with confidence, encouragement, and a bit of mess-friendly realism.

Iron for Babies: How to Make Sure Your Baby Gets Enough After Starting Solids Everything parents need to know about baby iron needs, from daily requirements to easy iron-rich meal ideas for babies 6–12 months. by Min Kwon, MS, RDN If there’s one nutrient that deserves a little extra attention when your baby starts solids, […]

The Best Milk for Toddlers: What to Offer After Age One How much milk toddlers need, which options support healthy development, and what to skip after age one. by MJ and Hungryman If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re choosing the right milk for your toddler, you’re not alone. Between well-meaning advice, bold marketing claims, and […]

Sports Nutrition for Active Kids & Teen Athletes Fueling teen athletes starts here—with an on-demand course made for active kids, growing teens, and the parents who power them. Get On-Demand Course Below! Whether your child is gearing up for game day or simply growing through a busy training season, the way they fuel their body […]