Baby & Kids Health Guide

From infancy through the growing years, nutritional needs change quickly. Learn about key nutrients, healthy eating, and what to consider when choosing vitamins and supplements for babies and kids.¹,²

✅ Reviewed by Jamieson's Science Team

Quick Answers

Do kids’ nutrient needs change?

Yes. Nutritional needs change as babies and children grow.¹,²

Which nutrients should parents know about?

Vitamin D, iron, and other essential nutrients play important roles in growth and development.¹,²

Do kids need a multivitamin?

Needs depend on age, diet, and other individual factors.²

What about vitamin D for babies?

Health Canada recommends vitamin D supplementation for babies who are breastfed or receiving breastmilk.¹

What vitamins and nutrients do kids need?

Babies and children need a range of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to support healthy growth and development. Their needs change as they grow and their diets expand.¹,² 

Food provides the foundation for good nutrition, while Health Canada provides specific supplementation guidance in certain circumstances, including vitamin D for infants and young children who are breastfed or receiving breastmilk.¹ 

Key Ingredients for Baby & Kids Health Guide

Vitamin D

Helps build and maintain healthy bones and teeth. Health Canada provides specific vitamin D guidance for infants and young children.¹,²

Iron

Supports healthy red blood cell formation. Health Canada recommends iron-rich foods among a baby's first complementary foods.¹

Omega-3s

Omega-3 fatty acids provide essential fatty acids that support healthy growth and development.

Build healthy habits as they grow

  • Offer a variety: Introduce nutritious foods and flavours as children grow and their diets expand.¹,² 
  • Make mealtimes a routine: Regular meals and snacks can help establish healthy eating habits.² 
  • Choose age-appropriate support: Nutritional needs and recommendations change throughout childhood.¹,² 

What to look for in vitamins and supplements for kids

Start with their age and needs, then choose a product that fits their routine.

  • Check the age range: Choose a product intended for your child’s age. 
  • Know what they need: Consider their diet and which nutrients or support may be relevant. 
  • Check the label: Review ingredients, amounts, directions, and cautions. 
  • Watch for overlap: Check whether different products contain the same vitamins or minerals. 
  • Find the right format: Consider drops, chewables, or gummies based on age and product directions. 
  • Look for quality: Look for an eight-digit NPN, which identifies a natural health product licensed by Health Canada.³ 

For more than 100 years, Jamieson has combined scientific expertise with rigorous quality testing. Every product is backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise. 

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine. 

FAQs

What vitamins are important for kids?

Children need a range of vitamins and minerals to support healthy growth and development. Their needs vary with age, diet, and other individual factors.¹,²

Do kids need a daily multivitamin?

Not every child has the same needs. Nutritious foods should provide the foundation, while supplements may be appropriate depending on age, diet, and individual needs.²

Do babies need vitamin D?

Health Canada recommends vitamin D supplementation from birth for infants who are breastfed or receiving breastmilk. Formula contains added vitamin D, so guidance differs for babies who aren't receiving breastmilk.¹,²

Sources

1. Health Canada. Nutrition for Healthy Term Infants: Recommendations from Birth to Six Months. Government of Canada.[Text Wrapping Break] Government of Canada: Nutrition from Birth to Six Months 

2. Health Canada. Nutrition for Healthy Term Infants: Recommendations from Six to 24 Months. Government of Canada.[Text Wrapping Break] Government of Canada: Nutrition from Six to 24 Months 

3. Health Canada. Licensed Natural Health Products Database. Government of Canada.[Text Wrapping Break] Government of Canada: Licensed Natural Health Products Database