Did you know that the amount of nutrients kids need to grow changes as they get older? Take a look at the childhood nutrition facts below to learn how much each food group your child needs.
Kids age 2-3
Calories 1,000-1,400
Protein 2-4 ounces
Fruit 1-1.5 cups
Vegetables 1-1.5 cups
Grain 3-5 ounces
Dairy 2-2.5 cups
Girls age 4-8
Calories 1,200-1,800
Protein 3-5 ounces
Fruit 1-1.5 cups
Vegetables 1.5-2.5 cups
Grain 4-6 ounces
Dairy 2.5-3 cups
Boys age 4-8
Calories 1,200-2,000
Protein 3-5.5 ounces
Fruit 1-2 cups
Vegetables 1.5-2.5 cups
Grain 4-6 ounces
Dairy 2.5-3 cups
Girls age 9-13
Calories 1,400-2,200
Protein 4-6 ounces
Fruit 1.5-2 cups
Vegetables 1.5-3 cups
Grain 5-7 ounces
Dairy 2.5-3 cups
Boys age 9-13
Calories 1,600-2,600
Protein 5-6.5 ounces
Fruit 1.5-2 cups
Vegetables 2-3.5 cups
Grain 5-9 ounces
Dairy 3 cups
Girls age 14-18
Calories 1,800-2,400
Protein 5-6.5 ounces
Fruit 1.5-2 cups
Vegetables 2.5-3 cups
Grain 6-8 ounces
Dairy 3 cups
Boys age 14-18
Calories 2,000-3,200
Protein 5.5-7 ounces
Fruit 2-2.5 cups
Vegetables 2.5-4 cups
Grain 6-10 ounces
Dairy 3 cups
(source: Mayo Clinic)
These childhood nutrition facts are a great way to ensure that your child’s body has the fuel it needs to develop. And of course, you want to limit junk food and encourage physical activity.
