What types of milk are recommended for children?
Milk and plain fortified soy beverages are a good source of protein, vitamin D, and calcium. Calcium and vitamin D help children build strong bones. Children need the amount of calcium and vitamin D available in 500 mL (2 cups) of milk or plain fortified soy beverage every day.
- Only offer breastmilk or 3.25% milk or appropriate infant formula to children 1 to 2 years of age.
- Once children turn 2 years of age, 2%, 1%, or skim milk or plain fortified soy beverages may be offered*.
- Offer small amounts of water in an open cup around 6 months of age.
*
*If choosing soy beverage as a milk alternative, read the Nutrition Facts table on the label and choose one that provides:
- at least 30% Daily Value (DV) of calcium and vitamin D
- less than 10 grams of sugar per 1 cup (250 mL)
- at least 6 grams of protein per 1 cup (250 mL)
For more information, visit the Healthy Eating Starts Here website.
Offer Healthy Drinks tip sheet
Healthy Drinks, Healthy Kids video
Healthy Drinks, Healthy Kids handout (page 1)
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