Dietary Guidelines for Children of Different Ages: Toddlers to Teens

Proper nutrition is a crucial component of a child's physical and cognitive development. As your child grows and their nutritional needs change, you need to understand how to provide a well-balanced diet that supports their development.

Dr. Jeff Couchman, Dr. Susan McMahon, and Dr. Nicole Adby of Mesquite Pediatrics are experts in providing dietary/nutrition guidance in the Tuscon, AZ area.

All children, no matter what age, should have a balanced diet, including a variety of foods from all food groups. This should consist of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, dairy, and whole grains.

Toddlers (Ages 1-3) 

Toddlers have unique dietary guidelines - their energy and nutrient needs are high as they're growing so rapidly! 

Here are some tips for toddlers:  

• Encourage your toddler to explore different foods to establish healthy eating habits. 
• Pay attention to portion sizes, as toddlers have small stomachs. You might need to offer smaller and more frequent meals and snacks to meet their energy requirements. 
• Include dairy products like milk and yogurt for calcium and iron-rich foods like lean meats, beans, and fortified breads and grains to support their growth. 

School-Age Children (Ages 4-12) 

As children transition to school age, they'll need a diet to support growth, maintain energy levels, and enhance cognitive development.  

Here are some tips for school-age children:  

• Offer whole grain products like wheat bread and brown rice to provide sustained energy and fiber.  
• Include lean proteins such as poultry, fish, eggs, and tofu - this is essential for muscle development and overall growth. 
• Teach children to enjoy sugary or high-fat snacks in moderation. 

You're not alone if you find yourself needing dietary/nutrition guidance for your child! Dr. Couchman, Dr. McMahon and Dr. Abdy at Mesquite Pediatrics, Tucson, AZ can help.

Teenagers (Ages 13-18)

Teenagers experience rapid growth and increased nutritional demands. In this stage of life, it's crucial to educate them on making healthy decisions, as they're often more independent in what they eat.

Here are some tips for teenagers:

• Teach your teenager portion control to prevent overeating and help them understand their own hunger and fullness cues.
• Provide nutrient-dense snacks like nuts, yogurt or whole grain crackers to keep energy levels stable throughout the day.
• Discuss the importance of a balanced diet, healthy eating choices and understanding food labels.

For More Information

If you're seeking dietary/nutrition guidance for your child in Tucson, AZ, Dr. Couchman, Dr. McMahon and Dr. Abdy can help. Contact the Mesquite Pediatrics team by calling (520) 648-5437 today.