Establishing healthful eating patterns for preschoolers includes modeling their eating patterns at home so that when they enter the school environment, they can make healthful choices.



The guidelines for teaching kids a healthful eating plan must include:

* Children should eat a diverse selection of foods. Each of the 5 major food groups contributes specific nutrients that are necessary for children's growth and development.

* Teach preschoolers to balance the kinds of food they consume to maintain a healthy weight and a healthy body

* Teach children moderation in the amounts and kinds of foods they consume. Eating foods high in fat content or consuming too many sugary snacks should be limited.

You can determine the amount of food from each food group that is right for preschoolers depending on their age. The USDA has specific guidelines for preschoolers from the age of 2-8.

Finding a healthful eating plan for your child will include choices from each of the five food groups. These recommendations are based on the guidelines from the USDA food pyramid.

1) Bread and Grains: 6 servings a day

These foods provide energy for activity and growth. Little ones should eat some whole grain products. At least half of the grains consumed should be in the form of whole-grain cereals and sandwiches prepared with whole wheat bread. Look at ingredients on the product label to make sure that the product is in fact made with "whole wheat."

2) Milk & Milk Products: 3-4 servings a day

These products provide needed calcium for stong teeth and bones. Little ones from 2 to 8 years of age should eat 2 cups per day of fat-free or low-fat milk or its equivalent in milk products.

3) Fruits - 2 servings per day

The amount of fruits preschoolers should consume is determined by their caloric needs. But the base requirement as outlined in the food pyramid for this age group is at least 2 fruit servings per day.

4) Vegetables – 3 servings a day

Veggies provide the vital vitamins and minerals to protect eyesight and the body's immune system.

5) Meats, Beans & Nuts: 2 servings per day

Meats, beans & nuts provide protein and iron to form muscles.

Past the age of two, the child's diet should limit the types of fat and salt they eat. Role models should limit the intake of high saturated fats or salt (sodium) in the diet to reduce the risk of high blood cholesterol and high blood pressure.

Total fat intake should be limited to 30 and 35 percent of calories for children ages 2 to 3 years, and between 25 and 35 percent of calories for children and adolescents from the age of 4 to 18.

Most fats should come from sources of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and vegetable oils.

Limit the number and amount of sugary snacks your child is eating. Sugary snacks containweight problems and cavities.

Replace sugary snacks with healthful snacks like fruits, veggies, and whole grains which are all good choices.