Eating Advice for School-Aged Children (K-12)
The School Years (K – 12)
- Important nutrients needed for this age group are carbohydrates (starches, breads, bannock, etc.) for energy, protein for building body tissue, calcium for strong and growing bones, and iron for making more red blood cells during periods of rapid growth.
- Parents should provide a variety of foods, set regular eating times, set a good example and allow children to decide when they are full.
- Unhealthy snacks have too many calories and not enough nutrients for proper growth and development. It is best to keep chips, candy and pop out of the house.
- Promote water instead of sugary, high calorie drinks like energy, sports, and fruit drinks, as well as pop.
- Promote healthy, traditional foods, gardening and being out on the land.
- NWT schools promote healthy eating habits by providing healthy foods and snacks and by improving cooking skills.
Recommended Number of Food Guide Servings per Day
Children
Age in Years
|
2-3 | 4-8 | 9-13 |
---|---|---|---|
Sex
|
Girls and Boys | ||
Vegetables and Fruits
|
4 | 5 | 6 |
Grain Products
|
3 | 4 | 6 |
Milk and Alternatives
|
2 | 2 | 3-4 |
Meat and Alternatives
|
1 | 1 | 1-2 |
Teens
Age in Years
|
14-18 years | |
---|---|---|
Sex
|
Females | Males |
Vegetables and Fruits
|
7 | 8 |
Grain Products
|
6 | 7 |
Milk and Alternatives
|
3-4 | 3-4 |
Meat and Alternatives
|
2 | 3 |
For additional advice and tips, visit:
- Healthy Eating For School-Aged Children (Canadian Diabetes Association)
- Drop the Pop
- 5 Steps to Healthy Eating for Children Aged 4-11 (Dietitians of Canada)
- Teens (Dietitians of Canada)
- How Much Food You Need Every Day (Health Canada)