Did you know that the amount of nutrients kids need to grow changes as they get older? Take a look at the childhood nutrition facts below to learn how much each food group your child needs.

 

Kids age 2-3

Calories  1,000-1,400

Protein  2-4 ounces

Fruit  1-1.5 cups

Vegetables  1-1.5 cups

Grain  3-5 ounces

Dairy  2-2.5 cups

 

Girls age 4-8

Calories  1,200-1,800

Protein  3-5 ounces

Fruit  1-1.5 cups

Vegetables  1.5-2.5 cups

Grain  4-6 ounces

Dairy  2.5-3 cups

 

Boys age 4-8

Calories  1,200-2,000

Protein  3-5.5 ounces

Fruit  1-2 cups

Vegetables  1.5-2.5 cups

Grain  4-6 ounces

Dairy  2.5-3 cups

 

Girls age 9-13

Calories  1,400-2,200

Protein  4-6 ounces

Fruit  1.5-2 cups

Vegetables  1.5-3 cups

Grain  5-7 ounces

Dairy  2.5-3 cups

 

Boys age 9-13

Calories  1,600-2,600

Protein  5-6.5 ounces

Fruit  1.5-2 cups

Vegetables  2-3.5 cups

Grain  5-9 ounces

Dairy  3 cups

 

Girls age 14-18

Calories  1,800-2,400

Protein  5-6.5 ounces

Fruit  1.5-2 cups

Vegetables  2.5-3 cups

Grain  6-8 ounces

Dairy  3 cups

 

Boys age 14-18

Calories  2,000-3,200

Protein  5.5-7 ounces

Fruit  2-2.5 cups

Vegetables  2.5-4 cups

Grain  6-10 ounces

Dairy  3 cups

(source: Mayo Clinic)

 

These childhood nutrition facts are a great way to ensure that your child’s body has the fuel it needs to develop. And of course, you want to limit junk food and encourage physical activity.