Florida Dairy Farmers child drinking dairy milk

Florida Dairy Farmers presents Dairy & Development

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In Partnership with Florida Dairy Farmers

1,000 days. That’s the period from conception to 2 years old and one of the most crucial times for a child’s development.

While most people assume proper nutrition begins at birth, it actually starts as early as conception.

According to U.S. Dairy, several medical experts agree that the first 1,000 days are so important due to the rate of human growth and brain development.

A neonate’s brain will double in size by 12 months and triple in size by 36 months, and dairy can help play a major role in these developments.

Pregnant woman holding a glass of milk. Presented by Florida Dairy Farmers

The Benefits of Dairy

The American Academy of Pediatrics recognizes that dairy contains seven of the 14 key nutrients important for early brain development. And there are big reasons why they recommend dairy milk and water as the go-to beverages for children between the ages of 1 and 5.

  • Nutrients: One 8-ounce glass of milk contains 13 essential nutrients such as calcium, protein, phosphorus, riboflavin, iodine and vitamins D, A, B12 and B5.
  • Immunity: Protein, selenium, zinc and vitamins A, B12 and D from dairy can help build a strong immune system.
  • Bone Health: Calcium, vitamin D, protein, phosphorus, potassium and zinc play big roles in developing healthy bones.
Florida Dairy Farmers toddler drinking milk


Different Stages, Different Dairy Options

Because it is not recommended that infants under 6 months drink milk, increasing your dairy intake when pregnant is key, especially for the increase in iodine.

Iodine deficiency is one of the leading causes of intellectual disabilities around the globe.

Once babies reach 6 months, foods like unsweetened whole milk yogurt, cheese, cereals and other pureed forms of dairy can be introduced.

At 12 months, whole milk can be added into a baby’s diet in moderation to help with both brain development and growth spurts.

Starting at 2 years old, nutrient-dense dairy foods and milk can be added in more frequently and should continue regularly until the child is at least 5 years old.

Though dairy contains amazing health benefits, consult your doctor and pediatrician before incorporating anything into your diet. For more information on the benefits of dairy and for family-friendly dairy-filled recipes, visit Florida Dairy Farmers at floridamilk.com.

Originally published in the September/October 2026 issue of Orlando Parenting Magazine