Healthy Children Eat Right

Good nutrition is basic for supporting preschoolers’ healthy growth while avoiding obesity

What do 2- to 5-year-old children need in their daily diet?
The amount of food that your child needs depends on his or her age, size, and activity level. Children should not be pressured to eat more than they want. As you plan meals and snacks, keep in mind the food groups and portions shown on the plate on the right [fruits, 1–1.5 cups; grains, 3–5 ounces; vegetables, 1–2 cups; protein, 2–5 ounces; dairy, 2 cups].
What about sweets?
It’s best to limit these, but don’t completely ban any food.
Teach good habits
Set a good example by offering more fresh foods.

IEL Resources

Healthy Eating for Children Ages 2 to 5 Years Old: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers
Source: Virginia Cooperative Extension

This provides a link to a publication that covers different topics that are of interest to parents and caregivers of young children (ages 2-5) and gives an overview of healthy eating and feeding practices

Healthy Snacking
Source: KidsHealth

This provides links to activities to help children make healthy snack choices.

Kids and Food: 10 Tips for Parents (also in Spanish)
Source: KidsHealth

This article provides ten basic guidelines to follow to can help encourage children to eat right and maintain a healthy weight.