How Much Should Your Child Eat?

Parents ask me about portion size all the time, most want to know exactly how much their child should eat. The truth is only your child knows how much he or she really needs. You can help your child get what he needs by serving small portions of at least three different food items at most meals and then allowing seconds if he or she is hungry. A balanced meal would include something from the starch group such as rice, potato, crackers, cereal or bread, a fruit or a vegetable or both and something that carries protein. Good protein foods can include milk, eggs, chicken, beef, fish, tuna, peanut butter or beans. Very young children need portions that are about one-quarter of an adult size portion. As long as you serve good food and allow your child to eat enough at each meal he or she will get exactly what they need.