Although feeding your child adequate calories and nutrition is important for proper growth and development, feeding your toddler too many calories in time could also become problematic. According to the 2010 dietary guidelines from the USDA, 32 percent of American children and teens are either overweight or obese. As with adults, calorie needs of toddlers vary by age, gender and activity level. Seeing your child's pediatrician on a regular basis can help determine if your child is maintaining a healthy body weight.
Sedentary Toddlers
Although being completely sedentary is typically discouraged for kids of all ages, if your toddler is fairly sedentary his calorie requirements are usually less than those of more active children. For sedentary toddlers 1 year of age, the American Heart Association (AHA) estimates calories needs are about 900 per day, and for toddlers ages 2 to 3 years old, the calorie requirements are about 1,000 calories per day. However, the USDA estimates that 3-year-old sedentary boys may require 1,200 calories per day.
Moderately Active Toddlers
According to the American Heart Association, moderately active toddlers may require up to 200 calories per day more than toddlers who are sedentary. The USDA advises that moderately active 2-year-olds consume about 1,000 calories, moderately active 3-year-old girls consume about 1,200 calories per day and moderately active 3-year-old boys consume about 1,400 calories per day.
Active Toddlers
The American Heart Association encourages adding an additional 200 to 400 calories per day to a very active toddler's diet compared to a toddler who is sedentary. The USDA advises that active 2-year-olds consume about 1,000 calories per day and active 3-year-olds consume about 1,400 calories per day.
Sample 1,000-calorie Plan
A USDA sample 1,000-calorie meal plan includes 1 cup of fruits, 1 cup of vegetables, 2 cups of dairy products, 3 oz. of grains, 2 oz. of protein foods such as meat, seafood, eggs, soy products, nuts or seeds, 15 g of oils and 137 extra calories per day. Meal plans are a simply a guide; individual toddler nutrition requirements may vary.
Sample 1,400-calorie Plan
A USDA sample 1,400-calorie meal plan includes 1.5 cups of fruits, 1.5 cups of vegetables, 2.5 cups of dairy products, 5 oz. of grains, 4 oz. of protein foods such as meat, seafood, eggs, soy products, nuts or seeds, 17 g of oils and 121 extra calories per day. Again, meal plans are a simply a guide; individual toddler nutrition requirements may vary.
