Specialties

Pediatric Nutrition: Nutrition for babies, children and teens

Healthy eating habits built in childhood last a lifetime. Our Registered Dietitians help families at every stage, from first foods and picky toddlers to school lunches and active teens, with advice that fits your child's age, your culture and your routines.

A parent's hand holding a baby's feet
Every ageFrom first foods to teen athletes.

Why nutrition matters as children grow

Children have unique nutritional needs that change as they grow. From the first bites of solid food to fueling adolescent development, a balanced diet ensures proper physical growth, brain development, immune strength, and lifelong health. Pediatric nutrition is not only about what children eat — it's also about building a positive relationship with food and creating lasting habits at home.

In the early years, adequate intake of nutrients such as iron, calcium, vitamin D, and healthy fats is essential for brain development, bone health, and overall growth. As children transition to school-age and adolescence, their energy and protein needs increase, particularly during growth spurts. We also focus on helping families support cognitive function, emotional regulation, and immunity through nutrition.

Our dietitians work with families to address common challenges such as picky eating, food allergies, digestive concerns, poor appetite, and weight management. We offer personalized plans that consider cultural preferences, family routines, and developmental stages — helping parents feel confident and supported.

Our guidance covers everything from creating nutrient-rich lunchboxes and navigating snack time, to decoding food labels and encouraging children to try new foods. We also help teens make informed food choices that align with their independence, activity levels, and health goals.

“When kids learn to eat well early on, they’re empowered with skills that support their health for life.”

— Rana Daoud, Registered Dietitian

Kids of All Ages

Our dietitians provide evidence-based guidance to help your child develop healthy eating habits and meet their nutritional needs at every stage of growth and development.

Infants (0-12 months)
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Infants (0-12 months)

Nutrition guidance for healthy growth and development during the first year of life.

  • Breastfeeding and Formula Feeding

    Support for breastfeeding, formula or both. Health Canada recommends a daily 400 IU vitamin D supplement for breastfed babies.

  • Introducing Solids

    Starting solids at about 6 months with iron-rich foods first (meat, fish, eggs, tofu, legumes or iron-fortified cereal), then moving toward family textures. No honey before age 1.

  • Food Allergies and Intolerances

    Offering common allergens like peanut and egg when solids start, around 6 months, rather than delaying them, with extra guidance if your baby has eczema or a family history of allergy.

Toddlers (1-3 years)
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Toddlers (1-3 years)

Fostering healthy eating habits in your active and curious toddler.

  • Picky Eating Strategies

    Picky eating is a normal stage. We share strategies that encourage a varied diet without pressure, bribes or battles.

  • Nutritional Milestones

    Iron (7 mg a day), calcium (700 mg) and vitamin D (600 IU) for growth. Cow's milk can start at 9 to 12 months; about 500 mL (2 cups) a day is enough, since more crowds out iron-rich foods.

  • Family Meal Planning

    Simple, nutritious meal ideas that work for the whole family.

Preschoolers (4-5 years)
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Preschoolers (4-5 years)

Encouraging independence and balanced nutrition in preschool-aged children.

  • Healthy Snack Options

    Snack ideas that provide essential nutrients and limit added sugar and salt.

  • Building Positive Food Relationships

    Helping children enjoy a variety of foods without pressure or stress.

  • Physical Activity and Nutrition

    Combining food and active play to support physical and cognitive development.

School-Aged Children (6-12 years)
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School-Aged Children (6-12 years)

Supporting healthy eating habits to fuel growing bodies and active minds.

  • Balanced School Lunches

    Practical ideas for packing nutritious and appealing school lunches.

  • Supporting a Healthy Immune System

    Enough vitamin D, iron, protein, fruit and vegetables support normal immune function; supplements are rarely needed unless the diet falls short.

  • Managing Food Preferences

    Encouraging kids to try new foods while respecting their preferences.

Teenagers (13-18 years)
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Teenagers (13-18 years)

Providing the right nutrition for growing independence and changing bodies.

  • Meeting Increased Nutritional Needs

    Teens need more calcium (1,300 mg a day) than adults, and girls more iron (15 mg), plus enough energy and protein for growth spurts.

  • Healthy Growth and Body Image

    Support for healthy growth, body image and a positive relationship with food during adolescence, without restrictive diets.

  • Fueling Sports and Activities

    Personalized nutrition plans to support athletic performance and recovery.

Key nutrients as your child grows

Daily amounts from Health Canada's Dietary Reference Intakes. Your dietitian checks how your child's usual meals compare.

Recommended daily intakes by age
AgeIronCalciumVitamin DFibreSodium (no more than)
1-3 years7 mg700 mg600 IU19 g1,200 mg
4-8 years10 mg1,000 mg600 IU25 g1,500 mg
9-13 years8 mg1,300 mg600 IU26 g girls, 31 g boys1,800 mg
14-18 years15 mg girls, 11 mg boys1,300 mg600 IU26 g girls, 38 g boys2,300 mg

Babies under 1: breastfed babies need a daily 400 IU vitamin D supplement, and iron comes from iron-rich first foods starting at about 6 months.

Pediatric nutrition in Ottawa, Gatineau and online

We see families in person at our Ottawa and Gatineau clinics or by secure video anywhere in Ontario and Quebec, in English or French. With your consent, we share the plan with your pediatrician or family doctor.

FAQ

Pediatric nutrition questions

When should my child see a dietitian?

When you have a specific concern, such as starting solids, picky eating that limits growth or energy, a food allergy, a digestive problem, growth or weight changes your doctor has noted, a vegetarian or vegan diet, or a teen athlete's needs. You don't need to wait for a problem: a visit can also confirm you're on track.

Do you see babies?

Yes. We help with breastfeeding and formula questions, starting solids, introducing allergens and iron-rich foods, and babies who aren't gaining weight as expected, alongside your pediatrician or family doctor.

Is picky eating normal?

Yes, especially between ages 2 and 6, and it usually improves with repeated, low-pressure exposure to new foods. See a dietitian if your child eats very few foods, struggles with textures, is losing weight or isn't growing as expected.

Do I need a doctor's referral?

No. You can book directly. Some insurance plans ask for a doctor's referral before they reimburse dietitian services, so check your plan.

Is it covered by insurance?

Many private insurance plans cover services from a Registered Dietitian, and we provide receipts for you to submit. Check your plan for coverage details.

Can my child's appointment be online?

Yes. We offer secure video appointments across Ontario and Quebec, as well as in-person visits at our Ottawa and Gatineau clinics. Online visits work well for teens and for parents of babies and young children.