From the time a child is born, he needs adequate calories, protein, vitamins and minerals for proper growth and development. Children often go through growth spurts during which they will eat very well, and other times when they seem to have no appetite at all. All children develop differently and therefore may need more or fewer calories than children of the same age. Therefore, the recommended calorie intake for each age is offered only as a guide.
Infants
Pediatric Oncall reports that infants need a high number of calories for their body weight as compared to older children. This is because infants are developing bones, teeth, muscles and blood. They need more nutritious food in proportion to their weight. Between birth and 6 months, infant needs are as high as 108 calories per kg of body weight. By six months, 98 calories per kg is appropriate. For the average newborn weighing 8.8 lbs. at birth, their caloric needs would be 432 calories per day. A typical 6-month-old child weighing 19 lbs. should consume 843 calories per day.
Toddlers
Keep Kids Healthy emphasizes that feeding toddlers can be difficult, as they are often picky eaters and are resistant to trying new foods. Therefore, it may seem as though they are not eating enough. While it is hard to count the number of calories in a toddler's diet, understanding their general needs can help reassure parents that their child is getting enough food. The average toddler needs approximately 1,300 calories per day. This is a general guideline; children may need more or less than this amount. It is recommended that toddlers consume five servings of grains, two servings of vegetables, two servings of fruit, two servings of dairy and two servings of meat.
4 to 8 Years
According to the American Heart Association, by the time children reach 4 years of age, the daily caloric requirement begins to differ between boys and girls. While girls need 1,200 calories per day, boys need closer to 1,400 calories. This is due to the fact that boys have a higher metabolic rate. General intake comprises six servings of grains, three servings of vegetables, three servings of fruit, two servings of dairy and two servings of meat.
9 to 13 Years
Mayo Clinic states that girls age 9 to 13 require between 1,600 and 2,200 calories a day and boys need 1,800 to 2,600. The wide range in energy needs is dependent upon growth and activity levels. At this age, many children are involved in sports and other activities, which require energy. On average, recommendations include consuming seven servings of grains, two servings of vegetables, three servings of fruit, three servings of dairy and three servings of meat daily.
Considerations
The website Epicurius stresses the fact that at any age, it is important to eat a variety of foods, choosing different color foods from each of the food groups. Children need a number of essential vitamins and minerals, which promote healthy growth and development. Consuming an array of foods will help children obtain these vital nutrients.
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