As your child enters the preschool years, getting her to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet with the correct number of calories can seem like an impossible task. A preschooler's appetite usually decreases from the first year or two of life because growth slows down. Preschoolers like to be independent, so they can become picky or want the same food for all three meals. Knowing how many calories your preschooler should eat every day can be helpful, but don't get stressed out if your child refuses to eat some days and then eats like a horse other days. This behavior is normal.
Age 3
According to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, a 3-year-old boy needs 1,200 to 1,400 calories and a 3-year-old girl needs 1,000 to 1,400 calories a day, depending on how active they are. A 3-year-old should be able to use a fork and spoon. Use child-size utensils and plates for easier handling and serve your child appropriate portion sizes so he doesn't get overwhelmed with too much food. Habits form early, so offer a variety of foods with lots of different colors and textures.
Age 4
The Dietary Guidelines state that a 4-year-old boy needs 1,200 to 1,600 calories and a 4-year-old girl needs 1,200 to 1,400 calories a day. Four-year-old boys and girls are becoming more independent and know what they like and don't like. Try to include foods that your child likes in each meal and snack, but also continue introducing new foods. Set a good example by trying new foods and eating well-balanced meals yourself. Your child will eat how she sees you eat.
Age 5
Five-year-old boys and girls need 1,200 to 1,600 calories a day. At this age, your child can help you prepare meals by performing simple tasks. Children who help prepare the meal are more likely to eat it. Take your child to the grocery store and have him help pick out produce or other foods. A 5-year-old can wash fruits and vegetables, put food in serving bowls, stir ingredients and help measure items for a recipe.
Meal Patterns
Most preschoolers can't consume adequate calories in just three meals a day. Including two or three snacks throughout the day can help your preschooler meet his caloric requirements. Remember that snacks are mini-meals and should include healthy foods such as fruit, vegetables, low fat dairy and protein. Avoid giving your preschooler sugary foods and beverages as well as high-fat foods.
