What I love about my Husband is that ever since I got pregnant to our Jellybean, we always exchange notes and researches regarding our baby's development. Until now, we still exchange notes that we find helpful for our growing baby here in the outside world. Just sharing what I got from BabyCenter---my favourite baby website ever!
Expert Answers from...
"We introduce our children to sweets, especially candy and sugared soda, at much too young an age in this country," says Claudia Gonzalez, a registered dietitian in Miami. "I always advise holding off on sweets for as long as possible, at least until after 2 years," she adds. Candy is chock-full of empty calories, and you want to make sure your child eats more nutrient-packed foods. He needs a healthy diet to fuel all the growth that's taking place in his body and mind. Also, eating habits and tastes are learned early, so what you offer your child now will affect him for the rest of his life. Helping him get off to a healthy start sets the stage for a lifetime of nutritious eating.
For safety's sake, never give your baby hard candies such as peppermints, butterscotch drops, or jelly beans before age 4. This type of candy can easily cause choking because it slips easily down the throat and babies can't chew it properly. Small pieces of chocolate that melt in your child's mouth are fine as a special treat after age 2.
Realistically, your child will figure out soon enough that sweets are...sweet. But you can help him make smart choices. "If you really want to offer your child a sweet, stick with ice cream or pudding on occasion. At least those treats have some calcium in them," says Gonzalez.
And give some thought to why you offer sweets. If sweets tend to be a reward in your house, consider nonedible treats instead. Most young children would be just as happy — if not more so — with a new roll of stickers as with a candy bar.
For safety's sake, never give your baby hard candies such as peppermints, butterscotch drops, or jelly beans before age 4. This type of candy can easily cause choking because it slips easily down the throat and babies can't chew it properly. Small pieces of chocolate that melt in your child's mouth are fine as a special treat after age 2.
Realistically, your child will figure out soon enough that sweets are...sweet. But you can help him make smart choices. "If you really want to offer your child a sweet, stick with ice cream or pudding on occasion. At least those treats have some calcium in them," says Gonzalez.
And give some thought to why you offer sweets. If sweets tend to be a reward in your house, consider nonedible treats instead. Most young children would be just as happy — if not more so — with a new roll of stickers as with a candy bar.
LUCKILY, our Jaleel eats really well and she's not a picky eater. We did not introduce her into colas, sweets and chocolates and we are planning to continue this until her diet is well stabilized. She eats veggies and loves it. She eats ampalaya, broccoli, and other healthy leafy veggies. Thank you baby for not giving us hard time on your meals---except those kalat under your booster seat HAHA.
