Food & Nutrition
Providing healthy and nutritious meals is one of the most important things you can do to get your child to develop healthy eating habits for life. Your preschooler’s normal growth and development also play a big role in their eating habits. As preschoolers grow, they change physically, mentally, and socially. These changes affect everything they do, including eating. To know what to expect, check out this helpful roadmap.
What Should my Child be Eating Daily?
MyPlate from the US Department of Agriculture provides daily food plans and ideas for your child, including tips for picky eaters and developing healthy eating habits.
Limit the amount of added sugars, sodium, and saturated fat in your preschooler’s meals, drinks, and snacks.
- Fruits – Focus on whole fruits
- Vegetables – Vary your veggies
- Grains – Make half your grains whole grains
- Protein Foods – Vary your protein routine
- Dairy – Move to low-fat or fat-free milk or yogurt
What is Good Brain Food for my Child?
This slide show from MedicineNet explains the top 10 brain foods for your child, which includes easy-to-get foods like peanut butter, eggs, oatmeal, and berries.
- Salmon
- Eggs
- Peanut Butter
- Whole Grains
- Oats/Oatmeal
- Berries
- Beans
- Colorful Veggies
- Milk & Yogurt
- Lean Beef (or Meat Alternative)
10 Snacks Kids Can Make Themselves
Helping your child create their own healthy snacks is a good practice to develop healthy eating habits. Check out these easy snacks your young child can make themselves.
- Veggies and Dip
- Fruit and Cheese Kabobs
- Yogurt Parfaits
- Ants on a Log
- Cinnamon or Peanut Butter Toast
- Toasted Cheese Sandwich
- Microwave Popcorn
- Microwave Pizza
- Fruit Smoothies
- Edamame
Delicious Healthy Recipes for the Whole Family
Your family eating habits have a major influence on your child’s eating habits. Here are some healthy recipes that the whole family can enjoy.
