Protein, Thiamin, Niacin, Iron 2-3 servings Amounts should total 5 to 7 ounces of cooked lean meat, poultry, or fish a day. Snacks National surveys indicate that three of four school-aged children get their own snacks. Snacks may contribute up to one-third of total daily caloric needs, and a significant proportion of nutrient needs. Children who are physically active and growing need to refuel periodically throughout the day. Properly planned snacks can meet that need.
Children tend to eat what is available.
School-aged children from ages 6 to 11 rely on household food supplies for their snack choices. Safe food handling and preparation is an important part of snacking. School-aged children from ages 5 to 8 may need snacks that are partially prepared for them or ready to eat. Older children enjoy preparing their own snacks. Parents should review safety rules for using kitchen equipment and set limits for the amount of food preparation that can be done.