The preschool years are a good time to familiarize your child with a healthy eating lifestyle, according to the National Network for Child Care. Your child's appetite may be smaller now than it was during his toddler years, but it is still important to make sure he gets the nutrients he needs every day during meals and snacks.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide your preschooler with fiber and antioxidants, as well as vitamins and nutrients like vitamin C and folic acid. She needs two to four daily servings of fruit like bananas, peaches, strawberries and apples. One serving is equal to 1/2 piece of whole fruit or 1/2 cup of 100 percent fruit juice. She also needs three to five daily servings of vegetables like broccoli, green beans and carrots. One serving of vegetables is equal to 1/4 cup of cooked vegetables.
Grains and Dairy
Grains are a source of fiber, which can help improve your preschooler's digestive system and energy levels. He needs six to 11 daily servings of grains like bread, cereal, crackers and pasta. One serving of grains is equal to 1/2 slice of bread, four crackers or 1/3 cup of cereal. He also needs four servings of dairy a day, which will provide him with calcium for strong bones and teeth. One serving of dairy equals 1/2 cup of milk or yogurt or 1 ounce of cheese.
Proteins
Protein sources are necessary for your preschooler to grow and develop properly, and can also provide her with energy. Some protein sources, like meat, have other benefits, too, like iron and zinc. Your child needs three to five servings of protein a day. One serving is equal to an ounce of cooked meat, 1/2 egg or 2 tablespoons of peanut butter.
Recommendations
Limit your preschooler's intake of sweets, which do not contain many nutrients and can fill him up quickly. You can help him learn healthy eating habits by involving him in food preparation and offering meals and snacks on a regular, predictable schedule.
