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How do I know if my child is eating enough? Children eat when they are hungry and usually stop when they are full. Some parents worry because young children appear to eat very small amounts of food, especially when compared with adult portions. A child who is growing well is getting enough to eat. To check your child’s eating pattern, pay attention to his or her food choices.
Child-size servings: be realistic For children, adult-sized servings can be overwhelming. Offering child-sized servings encourages food acceptance. Here’s an easy guide to child-sized servings.
Snacks count too Snacks make up an important part of childhood nutrition. Children must eat frequently. With their small stomachs, they cannot eat enough at meals alone for their high-energy needs. Three meals and 2 or 3 healthy snacks a day help children to meet their daily nutrition needs. To make the most
of snacks, parents and caregivers should offer healthy snack choices
and be consistent with the time snacks are served. Type. Offer a variety of snacks. Choose mostly healthy snack foods that are a good source of nutrients (protein, vitamins, minerals) as well as calories. Examples include raw vegetables, fresh or dried fruits, and low-fat dairy products. (See “Safety check.”) One hundred percent fruit juices (unsweetened) are an alternative to soda and fruit drinks but should be limited to 4 to 6 ounces per day. Timing. Plan snacks. Schedule snacks around normal daily events, and space them at least 2 hours before meals. Children should not feel full all the time. A feeling of hunger between meals and snacks encourages children to eat well when healthy foods are offered. If your schedule is hectic, pack a snack. This helps prevent a cranky, hungry child with no options besides fast food. Foods to choose Foods from all the groups work together to supply energy and nutrients necessary for health and growth. No one food group is more important than another. For good health, you and your child should choose foods from all 5 food groups.
Safety check Choking hazards:
Do not feed
children younger than 4 round, firm food unless it is chopped completely.
The following foods are choking hazards: nuts and seeds; chunks of
meat or cheese; hot dogs; whole grapes; fruit chunks (such as apples);
popcorn; raw vegetables; hard, gooey, or sticky candy; and chewing
gum. Peanut butter can be a choking hazard for children younger than
2. Peanut allergies: Peanut and tree nut allergies are increasing. If your child has food allergies, or is diagnosed with peanut or tree nut allergies, avoid nuts and any food that contains or is made with nut products. If nuts are to be eaten away from home, check to make sure there are no children present with nut allergies.
Published online:
9/08 Healthcare professionals
may order
this publication in multi-copy packs. The information contained in this publication should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
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Nutrition