Paul is five years old and always feels hungry. But his dad does not want him to eat in between meals and mom is not sure what to do. Does this not sound very familiar? This is a common factor with all the growing up children. It is not at all bad for the child to eat in between meals, or snacks, as they are very important to the child’s nutrition. What is important is what they eat.

Physically active children need extra energy for their growth. But as we all know they have very small stomachs, therefore they cannot eat enough at one time or at meals to give them the right nutrition that they require. In another 3-4 hours their stomachs get empty due to all work and physical activities and they feel hungry again. As we all know it’s hard to concentrate if you are hungry and this is especially true for children.

Well planned snacks help in getting all the nutrients that are required for the healthy growth and development of the child. What is important is to teach the children to eat and enjoy the healthy snacks. A healthful snack is more than just additional calories. It is nutritious and provides carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, water and dietary fibre. The foods that are particularly low in salt, sugar, and most importantly fats are considered the best.

Always consider a snack as a mini meal which should fit perfectly in with the children’s regular meals. For example, if the child avoids taking fruit during its main meal, then try including it in some form of a snack or try saving a part of the main meal. Maybe save half a sandwich, or a desert for snack time. A microwave, like the rather inexpensive yet efficient Swan SM 2050, is perfect for heating up left over meals. It is very important to build healthful snacking habits, which will provide the right nutrition for growing children.

Tags: children, health, nutrition