Your child's calorie needs will increase progressively with age, with other variables such as gender and activity level playing a role as well. Nutritional needs are also an important factor when considering calorie intake.
Identification
At age one, the American Heart Association says that children need approximately 900 calories daily. Children ages two to three need an estimated 1,000 to 1,400 calories per day, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Calorie needs increase to 1,200 to 1,800 for children ages four to eight, and to 1,600 to 2,200 for ages nine to 13. Teens need approximately 1,800 to 2,400 calories per day.
Nutrition
Like adults, children need the right balance of dairy, protein, vegetables, fruits and grains. Toddlers should get 30 to 40 percent of their calories from fat to ensure healthy development. Children need two to three cups of dairy daily, as well as one to two cups of fruit, and up to three cups of vegetables, depending on age.
Considerations
High activity levels mean higher calorie needs for children. If your child stays physically active during the day, his calorie needs will fall at the higher end of the spectrum.
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