What are the Nutritional Needs at Different Stages?
Children's nutritional needs vary by age and development stage:
Infants (0-12 months): Breast milk or formula provides all necessary nutrients. Introduction of solid foods should begin around 6 months. Toddlers (1-3 years): A balanced diet with a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy. Preschoolers (3-5 years): Continued emphasis on a balanced diet, with attention to portion sizes and healthy snacks. School-aged children (6-12 years): Increased caloric needs due to growth spurts and physical activity. Focus on nutrient-dense foods. Adolescents (13-18 years): Higher requirements for calories, protein, calcium, and iron to support rapid growth and development.
