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PARENTING IN MANITOBA

PARENTING IN MANITOBA

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Wondering about Food Allergies?

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What is a food allergy?

A food allergy is when the body’s immune system mistakes a food as something harmful. This triggers the allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can be mild or severe.

Top 10 foods that cause allergic reactions:

Peanuts

A small pile of peanuts on a white surface

Tree nuts

almonds, walnuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts,  pecans, pine nuts, pistachios, and brazil nuts 

A pile of nuts including almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts and pistachios on a white surface.

Wheat

Three stalks of wheat in front of a burlap bag filled with grains of wheat

Soy

a glass of soy milk beside a small bowl and small scoop filled with soy beans.)

Eggs

Two hard boiled eggs on a wood surface, one egg cut in half.

Sesame Seeds

a bowl and scoop both filled with sesame seeds

Mustard

a bowl filled with yellow mustard

Milk

A glass of milk on a wood table.

Sulphites :

Used as a food additive, sulphites can also occur naturally in some foods. 

Seafood

  • fish
  • crustaceans (e.g. lobster, crab)
  • molluscs (e.g. scallops, clams)
A bowl filled with seafood such as shrimp, fish, mussels, and clams.

Are there any foods I should avoid while breastfeeding/chestfeeding to prevent my child from getting an allergy? 

You don’t need to avoid milk, egg, peanut or any foods while breastfeeding/chestfeeding. There is no evidence that avoiding certain foods while breastfeeding/chestfeeding will prevent an allergy in your child.

Introduce common food allergens to your baby.

At six months of age (once your baby shows signs of readiness), start to offer iron-rich foods. Then begin to introduce a variety of foods including foods that are more likely to cause a food allergy (known as common food allergens). 

Did you know?

Avoiding or waiting to give your baby common food allergens will not prevent a food allergy. 

Food allergies in your family? 

A baby that has a parent, brother or sister with a food allergy is at a higher risk of developing a food allergy. Babies who have eczema or another known food allergy are also at higher risk. Even if your baby is at high risk of developing a food allergy, don’t wait to introduce foods that are common allergens. 

How to Introduce New Foods 

  • Offer one new food at a time to your baby so you can see if it causes an allergic reaction. 
  • When introducing common food allergens, wait two days before offering your baby another new food. 
  • Introduce common food allergens during the day instead of before baby’s bedtime. This will make it easier for you to see a reaction. 
  • Once you have introduced the common food allergen, continue to offer it to your baby on a regular basis so that they keep tolerating it. 

How to introduce nuts 

To prevent choking, offer diluted (thinned) nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, etc.). 

To prepare it:  

  1. Mix two teaspoons (10 mL) of smooth nut butter with three teaspoons (15 mL) or more of warm water, breast milk/chest milk or formula until smooth. 
  2. If you do not see any signs of an allergy, continue offering the rest of the nut butter mixture. 

Safety Tip

Babies and young children can choke on whole peanuts, tree nuts and spoonfuls of thick nut butters. Do not give whole nuts or undiluted nut butter to children under four years old. 

Other ways to include peanuts in your baby’s food 

  • Add smooth or reconstituted powdered peanut butter to infant cereal, mashed fruit or yogurt until smooth. 
  • Use peanut butter or peanut flour in baked goods such as muffins and loaves or sauces, curries and stir-fries. 
  • Spread peanut butter thinly on toast and cut the toast into strips. 
  • A peanut-flavoured corn puff snack is available at grocery stores. 

What are the signs of an allergic reaction? 

  • hives or rash 
  • red and itchy skin 
  • vomiting 
  • diarrhea 
  • swelling of the eyes, nose, lips or tongue 
  • trouble breathing or swallowing 
  • fainting, weakness or becoming pale 

Safety Tips

  • Signs of an allergy can appear as soon as a few minutes after giving the food, often within two hours. However, a reaction might not show up until several hours or days later. 

If your baby is having an allergic reaction:  

  • Stop feeding them the food right away. 
  • If your baby has trouble breathing or any other severe allergy symptoms, call 911 or your local emergency number. Your baby needs medical help right away. 
  • Do not give them that food or anything that contains that food again. 
  • If your baby’s reaction is not severe, talk to their health care provider. The health care provider may refer your baby to an allergist for testing. 

Does my baby need a medical alert bracelet? 

a baby wearing a medic alert bracelet

Your health care provider or allergist can give you advice on whether or not your child needs a medical alert bracelet.

If you have more questions about allergies, speak to your health care provider. 

More Information:

Questions?

If you have a nutrition or food question, call Dial-a-Dietitian Manitoba at 204-788-8248 in Winnipeg or 1-877-830-2892.   

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Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding and Returning to Work

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Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding is Valued 

Health Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend infants exclusively breastfeed/chestfeed for the first six months and continue to breastfeed/chestfeed up to 24 months and beyond, along with age-appropriate solid foods.  

Today, there is increased awareness about the importance of supporting breastfeeding/chestfeeding, both in public places and in the workplace.  

More and more parents are successfully returning to work or school while continuing to breastfeed/chestfeed. By making a few adjustments to your schedule, you too can continue to provide your breastmilk/chestmilk to your baby. 

Before Returning to Work 

Talk to your employer. Together, work out a plan with a flexible schedule to allow for time breastfeeding/chestfeeding and/or expressing your breastmilk/chestmilk. Decide ahead of time where you will feed/express and where you can store your milk. You will need: 

  • A comfortable place with a chair, small table and electrical outlet if needed. 
  • Bottles or milk storage bags.  
  • An electric or manual breast pump (or learn to hand express). If you do not already have a pump and have private insurance, check if they will cover the cost of a pump (sometimes you need a prescription for the coverage). 
  • A fridge to store expressed milk or a cooler with an ice pack. 

Did you know?

Some parents have their baby brought to them so they can breastfeed/chestfeed during breaks. If your child is being cared for nearby, you may be able to travel to them over a break. 

Tips to Help on this Journey 

  • Ease into your new routine. If able, plan to go back part-time. By planning ahead, you may find it easier to overcome any challenges. 
  • Start your new routine at least two weeks in advance; if you plan to feed your baby expressed breastmilk/chestmilk while at work, start pumping to save some milk. 
  • Label pumped milk and always use the oldest milk first. 
  • Breastfeed/chestfeed on demand when you are with your baby. 
  • If you plan to breastfeed/chestfeed at the end of your day, inform your baby’s caregiver so they don’t feed your baby just before you want to breastfeed/chestfeed. 

Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding Resources 

For further information you can contact: 

Additional Information 

Adapted with permission from Southern Health-Santé Sud 

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What Foods Do I Give My Baby First?

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Whether you are feeding your baby store bought baby food, homemade or a combination, introduce each food the same way. 

  • Start with iron-rich foods. 
  • Introduce one new food at a time. That way, if your baby develops an allergic reaction, you’ll have a better idea of what food might have caused it. When introducing a food that is a common allergen, wait two days before introducing another food that is a common allergen.  For information on food allergies see our article, Wondering about Food Allergies?  
  • Start with one to two teaspoons of food and gradually offer more according to your baby’s appetite. Let your baby decide how much to eat. 
  • It can take 15 to 20 tries of a new food before your baby learns to like it. Offer new foods many times. 
  • Your baby’s first food will likely be pureed. After a few weeks, gradually change the texture. See our page on baby food textures for more information. 
  • Babies don’t need extra salt, sugar or other sweeteners. 
  • Try to avoid highly processed foods that are high in sugar or salt. 

Safety Tips

  • Before feeding your baby check the temperature of food to prevent burns.
    • If you warmed it in the microwave, stir it well to prevent hot spots. 
  • As your baby learns to eat, they will sometimes gag and can be at risk for choking. 
  • The tables below have tips for preparing safe food for your baby. You can also see our page on baby food textures. 
  • Do not give your baby honey in any form (raw, pasteurized or cooked in food) until after their first birthday. Honey may cause botulism, a type of food poisoning that can make your baby very sick. Their immune system is not developed enough to fight it until after 12 months. 

The tables below show examples of how to incorporate starting solids with breastfeeding/chestfeeding or formula feeding throughout the day from six to 12 months of age.

Time of Day

What to Feed at 6 Months

Early Morning

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Morning

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Iron-rich foods**

Noon

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Iron-rich foods**

Afternoon

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Late Afternoon/ Early Evening

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Iron-rich foods**

Evening

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Night Time

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Time of Day

What to Feed at 7 Months

Early Morning

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula* 

Morning

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula* 

Iron-rich foods** 

Vegetables 

Fruit

Noon

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Iron-rich foods**

Vegetables

Fruit

Afternoon

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Late Afternoon/ Early Evening

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Iron-rich foods**

Vegetables

Fruit

Evening

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Night Time

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Time of Day

What to Feed at 8-9 Months

Early Morning

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Morning

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Iron-rich foods**

Vegetables Fruit Grains

Noon

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Iron-rich foods**

Vegetables Fruit Grains

Afternoon

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Late Afternoon/ Early Evening

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Iron-rich foods**

Vegetables

Fruit

Grains

Evening

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Night Time

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Time of Day

What to Feed at 10-11 Months

Early Morning

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Morning

Breastmilk/
chestmilk, formula*

or homo milk 3.25% MF Iron-rich foods**

Vegetables

Fruit

Yogurt

Grains

Noon

Breastmilk/
chestmilk, formula*

or homo milk 3.25% MF Iron-rich foods**

Vegetables

Fruit

Grains

Afternoon

Breastmilk/
chestmilk, formula*

or homo milk 3.25% MF Snack

Late Afternoon/ Early Evening

Breastmilk/
chestmilk, formula*

or homo milk 3.25% MF Iron-rich foods**

Vegetables

Fruit

Grains

Evening

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Snack

Night Time

Breastmilk/
chestmilk or formula*

Time of Day

What to Feed at 12 Months

Any time

Breastfeeding/chestfeeding provides lots of benefits to you and your baby – keep going! Offer a variety of table foods (watch for choking). Wean your baby from the bottle. Aim for three meals and two to three snacks a day.

* formula, with iron 
** iron-rich foods: poultry, beef, eggs, legumes, infant cereal

What foods have iron?  

At six months, your baby should start with iron-rich foods because their iron level is becoming low. Iron is important for healthy red blood cells and brain development. 

  • Chicken, turkey
  • Venison
  • Beef
  • Bison
  • Pork
  • Lamb
  • Veal
  • Wild meats
a wood serving plate covered with raw meats including a whole chicken, drumsticks, burgers and a roast

Health and Safety Tips:

  • Remove skin and bones from the meat. 
  • Boil, microwave or steam the meat to cook it. 
  • Use the cooking water, breast milk/chest milk or formula to blend the meat to the right texture for your baby. 
Pureed roast on a white plate with two small slices of roast and parsley on top. A blue baby spoon holding pureed meat.

Ideas for Preparing:

Cook all meats to their safe internal temperature. 

Processed meats are high in salt and contain additives. Try to avoid giving them to your baby.  

These include: 

  • ham
  • bacon 
  • deli meat (e.g. salami, bologna)
  • wieners and sausages are a choking hazard. If you do give wieners or sausages, prepare them safely by cutting them into four sections lengthwise and then into bite-sized pieces. This video shows you how. 
  • Tofu
  • Beans
  • Lentils
  • Chickpeas
  • Split peas
  • Nuts
  • Seeds

Health and Safety Tips:

If the legumes (beans, peas, lentils)  are dried, cook according to the directions on the package. 
Canned legumes are already cooked. Just drain and rinse well. 

Ideas for Preparing:

Use breastmilk/chest milk or formula to blend or mash beans, lentils or peas to the right texture for your baby. 

Two hard boiled eggs, one cut in half

Ideas for Preparing:

  • Cook eggs until the yolk is firm. 
  • Offer your baby mashed hard-boiled eggs or scrambled eggs 

Health and Safety Tips:

  • Do not feed your baby undercooked (runny) eggs or foods that have raw or undercooked eggs (such as raw cookie dough, cake batter). 
  • Cook eggs to a safe internal temperature. 
a blue bowl filled with infant cereal

Ideas for Preparing:

  • Start with a single-grain cereal such as rice, barley or oatmeal. 
  • Then offer mixed grain cereal. 
  • Prepare by following the directions on the package. 

Health and Safety Tips:

Avoid adult cereals as they do not have as much iron as iron-fortified infant cereals. 

Ideas for Preparing:

  • Choose boneless fish such as white fish, salmon and light canned tuna. 
  • Remove skin and bones before cooking.  
  • Fresh fish can be poached, broiled or baked. 
  • To puree fish, use the water that fish was cooked in, breast milk/chest milk or infant formula. Blend until you have the right texture for your baby. 

Health and Safety Tips:

  • Cook fish to the safe internal temperature. 
  • Mercury can affect your baby’s developing brain. Limit fish high in mercury to once a month. These include:
    • canned “white” albacore tuna 
    • orange roughy 
    • escolar 
    • marlin 
    • fresh or frozen tuna steak 
    • swordfish 
    • shark 

Once your baby is enjoying a variety of iron-rich foods, they are ready to try other foods such as vegetables, fruit, grains and milk products. 

Vegetables, such as:

  • Broccoli
  • Potatoes
  • Squash
  • Peas
  • Carrots
Piles of colourful vegetables including corn, red peppers, broccoli, beets, and red onion.

Ideas for Preparing:

Vegetables can be:  

  • fresh  
  • frozen  
  • canned  

To Prepare vegetables:

  • Fresh vegetables – wash, peel, remove any pits or seeds, and cut into small pieces.  
  • Cook vegetables until soft in water on the stove or in the microwave.  
  • To puree vegetables, use the cooking water, breast milk/chest milk or infant formula. Blend until you have the right texture for your baby.  
  • For a lumpier texture, vegetables can be mashed.   

Health and Safety Tips:

About canned vegetables:

  • choose unsalted products or  
  • rinse vegetables to remove some of the salt.  
  • Bananas
  • Pears
  • Peaches
  • Plumbs
  • Strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Cantaloupe
  • Kiwi
An arrangement of fruits including bananas, pineapple, kiwis, apples, oranges, grapes and lemons<br>

Ideas for Preparing:

Fruit can be: 

  • fresh 
  • frozen 
  • canned (choose unsweetened) 
  • cooked (such as applesauce) 

Prepare fruit:  

  • Wash, peel, remove any pits or seeds. 
  • Soft fruit can be mashed with a fork. 
  • Cut into bite-sized pieces or strips 

Health and Safety Tips:

  • When buying canned fruit or applesauce look for products that are unsweetened, in their own juice and not in syrup. 
  • Avoid giving babies fruit juice which is high in sugar. Babies get all the fluids they need from breastmilk/chest milk or formula. 
  • Grapes and cherries are common choking hazards. Be sure to cut them into four bite-sized pieces to keep your child safe. This video shows you how. 
  • Cooked barley
  • Brown or wild rice
  • Oats
  • Bulgar
  • Quinoa
  • Whole grain breads
  • Bagels
  • Pasta
  • Couscous
  • Pancakes
  • Unsalted crackers
  • Iron-fortified cereals 
four bowls of different grains

Ideas for Preparing:

  • When grocery shopping, look for labels that say, “whole grain,” “whole wheat flour” or “whole rye.”
  • Once your baby has been introduced to individual grains, fruits and vegetables, make things yummier by mixing flavours. Add vegetables, fruit, herbs or spices to cereals and grains. 

Health and Safety Tips:

When choosing grains, try to avoid highly processed foods that are high in sugar and/or salt such as:

  • Sauces (spaghetti sauce, soya sauce, ketchup) 
  • Spreads (jam or peanut butter with added sugar) 
  • Pasta with premade sauces 
  • Breakfast cereals
  • Milk products
  • Plain yogurt
  • Cottage cheese
  • Other types of cheese
A pile of yellow shredded cheese and wedges of cheese on a wooden board.)

Ideas for Preparing:

  • From six months, your baby can have milk products such as yogurt and harder cheese. Grate or cut hard cheese into thin slices to make it easier to eat. 
  • Click here to find out when you can offer water, milk, and plant-based beverages. 

Health and Safety Tips:

  • Make sure the milk products and cheese are pasteurized. Some soft cheeses (feta, brie, blue cheese, etc.) can be unpasteurized. 
  • Unpasteurized milk and cheese may contain bacteria and are not safe for babies (because they have immature immune systems). 
A glass of milk on a table

Ideas for Preparing:

  • Wait until your baby is nine months old and eating a variety of iron-rich foods before giving whole milk. Babies and children under two should be given whole milk. 
  • The label should read homogenized 3.25% MF (milk fat). 

Health and Safety Tips:

  • Always use pasteurized cow’s milk. Unpasteurized milk can have bacteria which can make your child sick. 
  • Whole milk (3.25% MF) provides the fat and nutrients that children two and under need to help their brains and bodies grow. 
  • Wait until your child is at least two years old before giving: 2% MF cow’s milk 
    any other low fat milk, plain fortified soy beverage, almond or rice beverage. See Fluids for more information.

Check out this video from Nationwide Children’s Hospital on how to cut up foods that are common choking hazards like grapes, cherries and hot dogs.  

Note: Other videos may be recommended by the host channel (e.g. YouTube, Vimeo). These suggestions may be based on your personal search history and other factors. The Manitoba Government does not control these suggestions and is not responsible for and may not endorse the content.

Note: Other videos may be recommended by the host channel (e.g. YouTube, Vimeo). These suggestions may be based on your personal search history and other factors. The Manitoba Government does not control these suggestions and is not responsible for and may not endorse the content.

References and more information:

Questions?

The Dial-a-Dietitian phone number is currently redirected to Health Links-Info Santé. You can leave a message with a nurse and a dietitian will return your call. 

If you have a nutrition or food question, call Dial-a-Dietitian Manitoba at 204-788-8248 in Winnipeg or 1-877-830-2892. The Dial-a-Dietitian phone number is currently redirected to Health Links-Info Santé. You can leave a message with a nurse and a dietitian will return your call.

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Bike Trailers and Bike Carriers

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Cycling with your child is a great way to get around and is fun for the whole family. Bike carriers and trailers help parents cycle safely with their child. 

A bike carrier is a special seat that mounts on the frame of your bike. 

A bike trailer is pulled behind your bike. 

If you are trying to decide between a bike carrier and a bike trailer, here are some things to consider: 

  • A bike trailer is safer than a bike carrier because it won’t tip over if the bike falls. 
  • Bike carriers are less expensive than bike trailers and require less storage space. 
  • A child in a carrier can fall if the bicycle tips over, if the seat becomes detached or if the child is not properly fastened in the seat. A child falling from an adult bike would fall about one metre (three feet), which could result in serious injuries. 
  • You need to be a strong and confident cyclist to use a bike carrier. 

Did you know?

Bike trailers are recommended for children between one to six years of age. While they tend to cost more than bike carriers, many models can also be used as strollers and some can carry two children. 

Bike Trailers

an adult riding a bike with a blue trailer connected at the back

What to look for in a bike trailer: 

  • Rollover type hitch so the trailer won’t tip if the bike tips 
  • Adaptable for children of different sizes 
  • Roll bars so that sides won’t collapse if the trailer tips 
  • Enough headroom to accommodate a helmet 
  • Five-point harness 
  • Sunshade and mesh screen front flap for protection from the sun, bugs, pebbles and debris 
  • Bright reflective material 
  • A flag for extra visibility  

Safety Tips

  • Follow the manufacturer’s age recommendations and instructions 
  • You and your child should wear a certified bike helmet that fits properly and is fastened correctly. 
  • Learn to be a confident cyclist. Take a bike safety course and get plenty of practice. 
  • Practice towing the bike trailer before taking your child out for a ride. 
  • Drive on bike paths and low traffic areas. 
  • Make wide turns to accommodate the trailer. 
  • Mount a bright orange flag on back of the trailer so motorists will see that you are towing a trailer. 
  • Use the harness or safety strap to fasten your child into the trailer. 
  • Use the cover or screen to protect your child from road dirt and debris. 
  • Don’t let the child eat in the trailer while you are cycling. This is so your child doesn’t choke. 

Buying a second-hand bike trailer can make it more affordable. 

  • Bring your bike with you to make sure the trailer can be safely attached to your bike. The shape of your bike frame and disc brakes may get in the way. 
  • Look for wear and tear. The straps and fabric should be free of rips and tears. 
  • Make sure nothing is missing; trailers should include a cover or screen. A flag and reflectors improve your visibility. 

Bike Carriers (Bicycle seats)

An adult and two children on bikes, one child in a carrier behind the adult, and an older child standing beside them.

What to look for in a bike carrier:

  • Foot wells or spoke guards to protect feet and ankles from the spokes
  • Safety belt or harness
  • Reflectors
  • One that mounts behind the bike seat
  • Front-mounted bike seats are available; however, they can limit your vision, your ability to steer and lean forward. Strong cyclists may be more comfortable with this style of carrier.  

Did you know? 

Not every bike is compatible with a child bike seat. Check the instructions and ensure that any seat you use is installed correctly and does not wiggle or move on the bike.  

Safety Tips:

  • The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a child be at least one year of age before riding in a bike carrier. 
  • Follow the bike carrier manufacturer’s age recommendations and instructions.  
  • Parent and child should always wear a properly fitted and fastened certified bike helmet.  
  • Learn to be a confident cyclist. Take a bike safety course and get plenty of practice.  
  • Never leave your child unattended in bike carrier.  
  • Child should wear close fitting clothing and not have blankets, drawstrings or toys that could get caught in the spokes or gears.  
  • Drive on smooth bike paths and low traffic streets.  

Reference

Baby on Board: Keeping Safe on a Bike– American Academy of Pediatrics

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Jogging Strollers

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Jogging strollers allow you to jog or run while pushing your child.  These strollers typically have three large wheels, making them easier to turn and a heavier suspension system to make the child’s ride smoother. Some jogging strollers convert into bike trailers. 

Parents should be aware of a few concerns about jogging strollers: 

  • Despite the improved suspension systems, they can cause jarring and stress to a young baby’s neck and spine. 
  • Parents could trip and fall, causing the stroller to tip and the child to fall. 
  • While the parent may feel warm while jogging in cool weather, infants in strollers are not exercising, so they may be cold. 

When shopping for a jogging stroller, look for one that has… 

  • a deep seat with a five-point harness 
  • three large, fixed wheels 
  • a hand brake and a foot-operated parking brake 
  • a wrist strap 
  • a sun shield 
  • back-up locks that prevent sudden folding of the stroller 
  • a headrest 
  • a fully reclining seat 

When jogging… 

  • Practice running with a stroller before you take your baby out. Start with a brisk walk then lead up to a run. 
  • Avoid running in extreme heat or cold. 
  • Wear good footwear while pushing a stroller. Never push while wearing in-line skates. 
  • Jog on smooth surfaces away from traffic. 
  • Run at a pace where you are in control of the stroller. 
  • Supervise your child at all times when they are in the stroller. 
  • Helmets are not required for jogging strollers. If your child does wear one, be sure that the seatback does not force the child’s head and helmet forward. 

Safety Tips

  • Follow manufacturer’s age recommendations and instructions. 
  • Use the stroller for walking until your baby is at least six months old. After that you can jog or run. 
  • Use a jogging stroller for jogging or running. Regular four-wheeled strollers are not safe for these activities. 
  • Always fasten the child’s safety harness. 
  • Use the wrist strap so the stroller does not get away from you. 
  • To avoid tipping the stroller; do not overload it or hang items on the back. 
  • If using the stroller with an infant, keep the stroller free of extra padding, pillows or blankets as these can cause suffocation. 

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What Canadian Pediatricians Say About Vaccination and Your Child

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Vaccination is the best way to protect your child against many dangerous diseases.

Do vaccines really work?

Yes. All vaccine-preventable diseases have declined in countries with successful vaccination programs. Vaccines protect children who are immunized and the people close to them by preventing the spread of disease. When immunization rates drop, these diseases can come back. All of these diseases can cause serious illness, complications and death, even with the best medical care. Many of these diseases have no cure. 

Do vaccines have side effects?

The chance of getting sick from a vaccine-preventable disease is far greater than the very small risk of having a serious side effect from the vaccine itself. 

  • Some children will have mild pain and redness where the needle went into the arm or leg. 
  • A mild fever is common after vaccination. 
  • Fever combined with a rash may happen after the MMR, MMRV or varicella (chickenpox) vaccines. 
  • Anxiety about needles may cause fainting, especially in older children and teens. 
  • Other side effects, including serious allergic reactions, are very rare. 

Why does my baby get so many vaccines in one visit? Can they wear out my child’s immune system?  

Getting several vaccines at the same time helps to protect your child as quickly as possible during their early years of life when they are most likely to get severe infections. It also means fewer appointments and periods of pain and discomfort. 

Your child’s immune system response will not be worn out after getting several vaccines at the same time. Their immune system already responds to very large numbers of antigens (proteins and complex sugars) that are found all around us every day. 

Can breastfeeding/chestfeeding protect my baby from infections? 

Breastfeeding/chestfeeding provides some protection against some infections, such as ear infections and diarrhea. It is not a substitute for vaccine preventable infections.  

Are vaccines properly tested for safety? 

Vaccines are among the most strictly regulated medical products in Canada. Before any vaccine is approved, it must be shown to be safe and effective. There is extensive monitoring, testing, information-sharing and decision-making that goes on behind the scenes. After a vaccine has been approved, Canadian health authorities continue to monitor for side effects. 

Immunization information on the Internet 

The internet has a lot of information about vaccines and vaccine-preventable diseases — but there is also misinformation, which can be harmful if used to make decisions about your child’s health. Asking a few key questions can help you decide if you can trust the information, you find online. 

  • Who runs the website? Can you trust them? 
  • What does the site say? Do the claims seem reasonable? 
  • When was the information posted or reviewed? Is it up to date? 
  • Where did the information come from? Is it based on scientific research? 
  • Is the site listed by the World Health Organization as a trustworthy resource? 
  • What are some signs that a website might not have a balanced point of view? 

It’s a good idea to talk about the information you find online with your child’s doctor before making any health decisions. 

Reprinted with permission from the Canadian Paediatric Society  

References

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The Mess and Fun of Starting Solid Foods

Posted on by Lan

When you introduce your baby to solid foods, you open a whole new world of smells, tastes, textures and experiences. This is not only a fun learning opportunity but also the start of your child developing a healthy relationship with food. 

When is my baby ready to start solids? 

Your baby is ready to start solid foods when they are six months of age and can: 

  • Sit up on their own with very little help and lean forward 
  • Hold their head up with good control 
  • Open their mouth when you offer food 
  • Turn their head away to refuse food 
  • Keep most of the food you give them in their mouth (they don’t push it out with their tongue) 

Did you know?

  • All babies go through growth spurts and will want to feed more often. If your baby is not yet six months old, they do not need to start solids. Just continue to breastfeed/chestfeed or formula feed your baby on cue to provide the extra nutrition they need. 
  • Starting solid foods before six months will not help your baby sleep through the night. 
  • If you give your baby solid foods before they are ready, they may:
    • Drink less breast milk/chest milk or formula and be at risk for iron deficiency 
    • Have a hard time swallowing food and be more likely to choke 

What is my job? 

Once your baby starts solid foods, you decide: 

  • what foods to offer 
  • when to offer them 
  • where your baby is fed 

Parent Tips

  • Offer food to your baby on a regular schedule. See table below for timing suggestions.  
  • Feed your baby at the table when the rest of the family is eating. 
  • Your job is to offer your baby healthy foods in a pleasant environment. After that, sit back and enjoy the fun and mess! 

What is my baby’s job? 

Babies naturally know how much to eat. Your baby decides: 

  • Whether they eat – It’s okay if your baby seems picky sometimes.  
  • How much to eat
    • Babies will eat what they need to grow strong. 
    • Let your child eat as much as they want and stop when they feel full. This helps them learn to listen to their hunger cues and know when they are full. 

Your baby will tell you they are hungry by: 

  • opening their mouth when you offer them food 
  • getting excited when you place them in the highchair or at the table for meals 
  • leaning towards and reaching for food 
  • becoming upset when the food is taken away 

Your baby will tell you they are full by: 

  • shutting their mouth when you offer them food 
  • turning their head or pushing the food away 
  • getting distracted from eating 
  • crying and fussing to get out of the highchair or away from the table 

Parent Tip

Don’t force them to eat if they don’t want to and don’t stop them from eating before they are full. This allows your baby to listen to their hunger and fullness cues. Babies’ appetites can change from day to day. 

Do I still keep breastfeeding/chestfeeding and/or bottle-feeding my baby? 

  • Continue breastfeeding/chestfeeding, and/or formula feeding your baby on cue.  This is still your baby’s main source of nutrition as they learn to eat solid foods. 
  • Continue giving vitamin D daily. 
  • If you are breastfeeding/chestfeeding, continue doing so until your child is two years old or older. Breastfeeding /chestfeeding provides many benefits to both you and your child. 
  • For ideas on how to incorporate starting solids with breastfeeding/chestfeeding or formula feeding click here. 

Getting started – share the experience, show the yum! 

Your baby is learning all about food – how it tastes, smells, feels…if it can be used as paint? It’s going to get messy, but exploring is part of the fun of learning. 

  • Some tips for coping with the mess:
    • Set up a splash mat or bed sheet under the highchair. 
    • Put your baby in the highchair in nothing but their diaper for easier clean up and less laundry. 
    • Sit back, relax and take some photos. 

Your baby wants to do what you do – if you look like you’re enjoying the taste and texture, chances are they will too. 

Include your baby at family mealtimes. Talk with your baby and limit distractions such as toys, telephones and television. 

Now to get started! See our article on What foods do I give my Baby First? 

Quick links: 

Questions? 

If you have a nutrition or food question, call Dial-a-Dietitian Manitoba at 204-788-8248 in Winnipeg or 1-877-830-2892. 

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Choosing Safer Sleep Sacks

Posted on by Lan

Many types of products are available to help your baby sleep and keep your baby warm. Some products are sold as: 

  • sleep sacks 
  • swaddling sacks 
  • swaddle blankets 
  • wearable blankets 
  • baby sleeping bags

Did you know?

Not all products are safe choices for your baby. Some designs can put your baby at risk of choking and suffocating. It is important to dress baby according to room temperature so they do not overheat. 

If you choose to use sleep sacks or other sleeping products, look for ones that:  

  • meet children’s sleepwear flammability guidelines (check the label). 
  • are made from lightweight fabric 
  • fit properly 
  • do not have:
    • drawstrings, ribbons, cords or tight elastic 
    • buttons, snaps or decorations that could become loose and cause choking 
    • a hood, collar, or wrap near the face that could cover baby’s mouth and nose 

The product should: 

  • Be snug around the upper body so the baby can’t wiggle out and the baby’s head does not slip down into the bag. 
  • Not be tight around the chest. You should be able to fit two or three fingers between the baby’s chest and the fabric. 
  • Be loose around the hips so the baby’s legs can bend and move easily.  

Remember: Always follow the manufacturer’s age, weight and length recommendations, and safety precautions. 

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Make an Informed Decision on How to Feed Your Baby

Posted on by Lan

Choosing whether to breastfeed/chestfeed or formula feed your baby is one of many big decisions new and expectant parents will make. This information can help you make an informed decision on how you want to feed your baby. 

Breastfeeding/chestfeeding gives your baby the best possible start and is good for you as well. Breastfeeding/chestfeeding is recommended as the only type of food for your baby for the first six months of life. You can continue to breastfeed/chestfeed your baby for two years or longer. 

Breastfeeding/chestfeeding is more than just feeding your baby. It provides closeness and warmth which helps to create a special bond between you and your baby. This nurturing helps your baby grow and develop. 

Breastmilk/Chestmilk – Nature’s Superfood

Breastmilk/chestmilk provides almost everything your baby needs to grow healthy and strong.  

Breastmilk/Chestmilk:  

  • is easiest for your baby to digest 
  • it is always available and ready to go – no preparation is required 
  • has all the nutrients, calories and fluids your baby needs to grow and develop 
  • changes over time to meet the needs of your growing baby 
  • helps protect your baby from lung, ear and stomach infections 
  • helps prevent allergies, diabetes, eczema, some cancers and obesity 
  • can reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
  • the only extra thing you need to give baby in the first six months is vitamin D daily. 

Here is more information on breastfeeding/chestfeeding. 

Infant formula 

  • Commercially prepared infant formulas are an alternative to breastmilk/chestmilk  
  • Stays the same therefore cannot adapt to your baby’s growing needs 
  • Antibodies are not a component of formula therefore it cannot protect your baby from infections and diarrhea 
  • Powdered formula is not a sterile product 

Some additional steps and considerations for providing infant formula include: 

  • Extra time to sterilize equipment 
  • Extra equipment is required 
  • Formula can be quite costly  

If you have made an informed decision to give your baby infant formula, see our page about infant formula. 

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