Feeding Preschoolers Children’s attitudes and opinions about food deepen. They not only begin taking their cues about food preferences from family members, but also from peers and the larger culture. This time in a child’s life provides an opportunity for families and other caregivers to reinforce good eating habits and to introduce new foods into the diet while remaining mindful of a child’s preferences. Adults should also serve as role models for their children, who will often mimic their behavior and eating habits.
MyPlate also provides a guide daily for calories based on sex and activity-level for preschool- aged children (although children’s needs may differ from the average and appetites can vary from day to day).
Average Calorie Needs for Preschoolers38
Age Sex Activity Calories
2 Boys & Girls Any level 1,000 calories
3
Boys
<30 minutes 1,000 calories
30-60 minutes 1,400 calories
>60 minutes 1,400 calories
Girls
<30 minutes 1,000 calories
30-60 minutes 1,200 calories
>60 minutes 1,400 calories
4
Boys
<30 minutes 1,200 calories
30-60 minutes 1,400 calories
>60 minutes 1,600 calories
Girls
<30 minutes 1,200 calories
30-60 minutes 1,400 calories
>60 minutes 1,400 calories
5
Boys
<30 minutes 1,200 calories
30-60 minutes 1,400 calories
>60 minutes 1,600 calories
Girls
<30 minutes 1,200 calories
30-60 minutes 1,400 calories
>60 minutes 1,600 calories
In early childhood, children should still get 45-65% of their daily calories from carbohydrates. Carbohydrates high in fiber should make up the bulk of intake. Their intake of protein increases to 10–30% of their daily calories to support muscle growth and development. High levels of essential fatty acids are needed to support growth (although not as high as in infancy and the toddler years). As a result, the daily recommendation for fat is 25–35% of their daily calories. And they should get 17–25 grams of fiber per day.