What do parents need to know about the basic nutrition needs of children?
(i.e. RDA fruits/vegetables) All children require a full range of essential nutrients, especially protein, iron, calcium, and vitamin A. In terms of recommended amounts of grains, fruits and veggies, dairy, protein, fats and sugars we recommend parents try to adhere to the guidelines set by the USDA food pyramid. As far at total caloric intake, for kids it varies greatly depending upon age. For example, a 3-year-old needs about 1,300 calories daily, whereas a 10-year-old needs about 2,000 calories daily and a teenager should consume approximately 2,800 calories per day. The best way to ensure kids get the food they need and still maintain a healthy weight is to provide them with a wide range of nutritious foods that are low in saturated fat and sugar. How do you encourage children to be more active and help them understand the benefits? Parents need to find activities that their children like to do and help them develop skills so they feel good doing them. We particularly like to encou
