Nutrition plays an important role in the growth of children. Beginning in infancy, the baby should be allowed to participate in eating as soon as able to take finger foods. Children will choose a balanced diet if food is made available to them. Don't force or bribe children to eat.

From birth to 6 months either breast milk or commercial formula will meet all your child's nutritional needs. At 4 months, you can begin feeding your baby rice cereal. Other cereals and foods may be introduced every 5-7 days. Between 5 and 7 months, pureed vegetables and fruits are introduced. Do NOT introduce citrus fruits or grapes until 12 months of age. They may cause allergic reactions. These foods may be contaminated and could cause food poisoning. Meat and starchy whole foods such as rice, potatoes, and noodles are introduced at 8 or 9 months. Between 10 and 12 months, table foods such as cheese, mild casseroles, beans, fruits, vegetables, and breads may be introduced. Discuss your infant's diet with your healthcare provider during routine examinations. Infants and toddlers require 40 to 45 calories per pound of body weight.

Preschool children should eat a variety of foods daily. Serving sizes will vary by age and food. Give 4 servings a day of milk products. Give 4 or more servings a day of fruits and vegetables as well as bread and cereal products. The meat group includes 3 or more servings of lean meat, fish, poultry, eggs, or legumes. The appetites of preschool children fluctuate with their energy needs. Some children can be finicky eaters. Allow children to select how much they need to eat at each meal while offering nutritious food choices and set mealtimes. Pre-schoolers require about 40 to 45 calories per pound of body weight.

Eating habits of school age children are usually established by the time they begin school. Offer a variety of foods. Emphasize low fat and high fiber foods. Promote regular physical activity to help maintain normal weight. Avoid high-fat or heavily sugared snacks. Encourage fruits and vegetables. Air-popped popcorn, pretzels, dried fruits and low-fat yogurts are good snack choices for school aged children. School aged children require 30 to 40 calories per pound of body weight.

Eating a balanced diet during the teen years is important for development. Depending on the level of activity, teens need 25 to 30 calories per pound of body weight. Active male teens need almost 1000 more calories than females. Vitamins and other food supplements are usually unnecessary for healthy children and young adults who eat varied diets.

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