Resources for Infants and Children

Well Fed Means Less Lead

Lead can be dangerous. It is found in places like keys, jewelry, toys, paint, pottery, and dirt. Offering a low fat diet full of iron, vitamin C, and calcium every day can keep your child safe from lead and its harmful side effects. Follow these tips and view a list of recommended foods to protect your family from lead.

Welcome Baby Program

The Welcome Baby Program from First 5 LA provides LA County pregnant women and new moms with information, support, and a trusted partner to help you through the journey of pregnancy and early parenthood.

Talking With Your Doctor

You may have many questions you’d like to ask your doctor about your child’s development, but you may not be sure when, how, or what exactly to ask. That’s where our resources for children can help. WIC staff and our education materials can help guide your questions based on your child’s age, so that you can get the most out of your doctor visit. Be prepared for your child’s next doctor appointment with this quick guide.

Let Your Baby Set The Pace

Feeding is a great time to nurture your baby.  When you feed your baby at a comfortable pace, baby can let you know, “I need a break” or “I’m full”.  Letting your baby set the pace means less chance of overfeeding, gas, stomach discomfort, and spitting up.

Formula Feeding

If you are feeding your baby infant formula, there are some important things to know such as how to prepare the bottles, how to mix the formula, how to feed your baby, which type of bottle to use, and how much to feed your baby. Explore the pages in our guide below.

Getting to Know Your Baby

Babies cry, wake up in the middle of the night, and need to be fed frequently. These behaviors are normal but can be stressful for parents. Knowing what to expect and learning how babies use their bodies and noises to communicate will help you feel more relaxed and confident.

Getting to Know Your Toddler

Between 6 months and 2 years of age, babies become toddlers. Your child will start walking, talking, and interacting more with the world around him. There are 6 developmental changes that all older babies and toddlers go through.

Ready for Solid Foods?- 6 Months

Here are helpful guides to feeding your baby from birth to six months old and beyond:

Feed Me! Birth to Six Months

Feed Me! Six to 12 Months

Drinking From a Cup – 9 Months

Parenting toddlers is not always easy. You can help your child learn to take sips of water, breastmilk, or formula from the cup. But remember: learning takes time! Try not to worry about spills.

Time for Finger Foods – 9 Months

When your baby is ready, at around nine or 10 months, she or he can start feeding her or himself. This is when babies are learning to use their thumb and fingers to pick up small things. Our finger foods guide helps families teach their children how to eat on their own and further develop their motor skills.

Let’s Eat! Healthy Eating Ages 1 – 4 Years

Choose your child’s age from the list below for tips on healthy eating from age one to four years. Learn about portion sizes, recommended daily amounts of each food group, meal and snack ideas, choking prevention, and more!

Playing With Your Child Ages 0 – 5 Years

Playing helps children get smarter, stronger, healthier, and happier! Learn about the many ways to play with your baby, toddler, or preschooler.

Developmental Milestones

When will your baby take her or his first steps? Is your child saying enough words for his or her age? What’s the best way to potty train? Choose a milestone checklist with your child’s age from this list.

Preparing for School: Little by Little

Babies are born ready to learn. They are curious, little scientists who learn from their environment. Parents may have questions. How do babies communicate? When should they take their first steps? Why do children have tantrums? When should I potty train? How can I help prepare my child for school? Your child’s brain is developing at an amazing rate from birth to age 5.

Learn More About Little by Little

Select your child’s age below to learn about how they should be developing:

Is My Child Constipated?

Does your child have hard, dry stools (poops) that are difficult to pass? Your child may have constipation. Learn more about signs, causes, and things you can do to help.

Vegetables Are Yummy

My child will not eat vegetables. Why not? You can help your child by offering one new food at a time, serving a small amount, and making mealtimes easier. Here’s a guide on how to help your child learn to like and eat more vegetables.

Iron

Iron is an important nutrient for your child’s development and growth, but not all kids get enough! Learn more about signs of anemia and tips to help your family eat enough iron.

Happy Healthy Teeth

Your baby’s first teeth are important. Children need their teeth for eating, talking, and smiling. All teeth are important. You can help take care of your children’s teeth.

Lactose or Dairy Intolerance

Milk helps build strong bones and teeth. But what can you do if you are having trouble digesting milk? Did you know lactose is in other dairy products? Here’s a guide for people who have trouble digesting milk or milk products.

Fast and Healthy Breakfast Ideas

Balanced and healthy breakfasts benefit the whole family, especially kids. Breakfast helps to boost your energy, creativity, and concentration. Sometimes it can be hard to know what to serve. Try out these quick and delicious breakfast ideas using your WIC foods, to set the tone for the entire day.