Crucial to the development of growing bones and teeth, calcium is an essential mineral in the diet of children.
Why Children Need It
During key growth periods, calcium intake has a direct effect on the bone density of the skeleton, according to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). Inadequate intake leads to weaker bones, which have a greater chance of breaking.
Dairy Sources
Dairy foods are a key source of calcium. One cup of milk, for example, contains 300 mg of calcium. Just three servings of low-fat milk, cheese or yogurt can meet the calcium requirements of a tween or teen, according to the NICHD.
Non-dairy Sources
Some vegetables high in calcium include dark green leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli. Some foods have calcium added, including orange juice, bread and soy milk. Almonds also are high in calcium, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Daily Requirements
Children require different amounts of calcium at different ages, according to the Institutes of Medicine.
Birth to six months requires 210 mg/day, 6 to 12 months 270 mg/day, one to three years 500 mg/day, four to eight years 800 mg/day and nine to18 years 1,300 mg.
Vitamin Boost
Vitamin D is added to milk and other calcium-containing products because it helps children and adults better absorb calcium, according to the CDC.
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