Infants
The only recommended source of nutrition for the first 6 months of life
What is breast milk or iron-fortified formula?
Toddlers often show this behavior where they prefer only a few foods repeatedly.
What is picky eating?
A teaching strategy where caregivers model healthy eating behaviors.
What is role modeling?
This common issue results from excessive intake of sugary drinks and snacks.
What is childhood obesity?
This nutrient is especially important for adolescent girls due to menstruation.
What is iron?
This is the recommended age to start solid foods
What is 6 months?
This key nutrient supports bone development and is often needed in higher amounts at this age.
What is calcium?
Preschoolers benefit from meals structured around this concept for consistency
What is a routine or scheduled meals/snacks?
To avoid excessive weight gain, school age children should be encouraged to do this.
What is increase physical activity?
What is anorexia nervosa?
A major "don't" --this common food should NOT be given before age 1 due to botulism risk.
What is honey?
This vitamin is essential to assist with bone development
What is vitamin D?
This vitamin is important for immune health and is commonly encouraged in fruits and vegetables.
What is vitamin C?
Teaching children to read this helps them make healthier food choices.
What is reading nutrition labels?
Increasing the intake of this nutrient supports muscle growth during puberty.
What is protein?
When introducing new foods, caregivers should wait how many days before adding another to monitor for allergies.
What is 3-5 days?
A "do"--this feeding approach encourages independence and self-regulation
What is offering finger foods or self-feeding?
Preschoolers should consume 13-19g of this type of protein daily.
What is complete protein?
These should be limited due to high sugar content.
What are sugar-sweetened beverages?
A "don't"--skipping this meal is common in teens and can negatively impact metabolism.
What is skipping breakfast?
This should not be introduced until 1 year of age due to inability to fully digest protein and fat content.
What is cow's milk?
A major choking hazard that should be avoided or modified for toddlers.
What are whole grapes, hot dogs, or nuts?
A "don't"--this feeding mistake can lead to unhealthy eating habits.
What is forcing a child to clean their plate?
A "do"--this habit supports academic performance and energy levels throughout the day.
What is eating breakfast?
Teaching teens to balance meals using this guidance promotes healthy eating.
What is MyPlate or balanced eating?