6. School Age

how does body composition change as school-age children approach adolescence?

• body fat increases earlier and more in girls

• boys have more lean body mass per inch of height

what influences school-age children’s eating habits?

established food preferences, family, peers, and media

what determines school-age children’s calorie needs?

age, gender, and activity level

what is the recommended calorie distribution for school-age children?

• carbohydrates: 45–65%

• protein: 10–30%

• fat: 25–35%

how much calcium do children ages 4–8 need daily?

1,000 mg/day

how much calcium do children ages 9–13 need daily?

1,300 mg/day

why is calcium important for school-age children?

development of strong bones and teeth

how much of a child’s plate should contain fruits and vegetables?

½ the plate

how much of a child’s grain intake should be whole grains?

at least ½

what protein choices should caregivers encourage?

lean proteins, including fish

which foods should be limited in school-age children?

• processed sugars

• fatty meats and high-fat dairy

• hydrogenated shortenings