Return to Articles
6.01.2025
Celebrate National Dairy Month: Growing Strong Bodies and Bright Minds
The First 5 Things to Know About Dairy and Your Child’s Development
Dairy plays a key role in early childhood development by supporting strong bones, brain growth, and balanced nutrition, making it an important, versatile food group for kids ages 0 to 5, even for those with lactose sensitivity.
- Dairy is a top source of calcium and vitamin D for growing bones
During the early years, your child’s bones are growing fast. Dairy is one of the best natural sources of calcium, a mineral that helps build strong bones and teeth. Dairy also contains vitamin D, which helps little bodies absorb calcium more effectively. Together, these two nutrients are essential for proper skeletal development.
- Dairy supports brain development through iodine
Did you know iodine is critical for early cognitive development? In the U.S., cow’s milk and other dairy products are primary dietary sources of iodine, making them especially important during pregnancy, infancy, and early childhood. Children with low iodine intake may be at greater risk for learning difficulties and developmental delays. Including dairy can help reduce this risk.
- Milk provides high-quality protein for muscle and tissue growth
Every cell in your child’s body needs protein to grow and repair itself. Dairy is a complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids needed for development. Whether it’s a glass of cow’s milk at breakfast or some shredded cheese at snack time, these foods help support healthy muscles and tissues.
- Dairy foods are easy to include in toddler-friendly meals and snacks
From sippy cups of milk to smoothies and string cheese, dairy fits easily into daily routines. It’s also convenient, affordable, and widely available, making it a practical choice for busy, new families. Here are some fun, easy ways to add dairy to your child’s diet:
- Mix full-fat plain yogurt with fruit or oats for a nutrient-packed breakfast ● Add shredded cheese to scrambled eggs or quesadillas
- Freeze yogurt drops for a fun summer snack
- Top toast or crackers with cottage cheese
- Dairy helps fill nutrient gaps for picky eaters
There’s no denying that picky eating is common in the early years. Dairy can help fill in the gaps when fruits or vegetables get pushed aside. A serving of cow’s milk or plain yogurt provides potassium, phosphorus, riboflavin, and vitamin B12—nutrients that are sometimes harder to get from other foods.
Choosing low- or full-fat dairy options (depending on your child’s age and health needs) can be a reliable way to ensure they’re always getting enough key nutrients. Plus, because dairy foods are versatile in both flavor and texture, they can help enhance consumption of other food groups by acting as a delivery system for these foods (ie: pairing cheese with fruits and veggies or making a smoothie) to entice children to eat a more healthy, balanced meal/snack
Is Your Child Lactose Intolerant? Here’s Our Expert Dietitian Advice!
While lactose intolerance can show up in children, it’s important to remember that it exists on a spectrum. Some children can still properly digest small amounts of dairy, while others may be more sensitive. Note that lactose intolerance is different from a milk allergy, which involves an immune response and requires complete avoidance of dairy.
The good news for kids with lactose sensitivity? Many dairy options are naturally low in lactose or lactose-free, making it easier to still enjoy all of dairy’s 13 essential nutrients without the tummy troubles.
Consider these low-lactose dairy options:
- Hard cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Swiss (naturally low in lactose) ● Yogurt with live active cultures, which help break down lactose
- Lactose-free milk (real cow’s milk with the lactose removed)
Keep an open conversation with your family pediatrician (and dietitian) if you’re concerned your baby may have lactose intolerance or a milk allergy.
Want More Tips?
Check out https://nevadamilk.com/ for all your dairy needs, including informational blog posts, recipes, and family-friendly resources. Available in both English and Spanish!
Forget our website? You can always find us featured on First 5 Nevada’s Food and Nutrition Services page.
