The fundamental nutritional needs of children are similar to the nutritional requirements of other family members. The only difference is that amounts need to differ because of the child's age. Parents should offer their child a variety of foods from the basic food groups: Breads, cereals, rice and pasta; vegetables and fruits; milk, yogurt and cheese; and finally, meats, poultry, fish, dry beans, peas, and eggs. When given the opportunity and as time passes young children will consume adequate nutrients when allowed to choose from a variety of healthy foods.

All of us know that protein is needed for growth. Protein can be found in milk, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, cheese, and dry beans and peas. Another nutrient, calcium, is necessary for strong bones and teeth. Calcium is found in milk and milk products and to some extent in leafy green vegetables. One required mineral, iron, is an important nutrient contained in meat, poultry, fish, eggs, green leafy vegetables, and iron fortified cereals. From cereals iron can be absorbed better when served with a foods rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C is contained in citrus fruits, their juices and dark green or yellow vegetables. This same group can be a good source of vitamin A. Breads and cereals offer us minerals and vitamins.

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