Many kids, if they had their way, would eat the same foods all the time, but to get all the nutrients they need for optimum growing conditions they need to eat from all food groups. Just like adults, children should eat along the guidelines of the food pyramid, getting the recommended number of servings daily. The difference for children comes in the sizes of the portions served. The number of recommended servings from each group are as follows. For children, six servings from this group is sufficient.
Grains contain important complex carboydrates.
The selections should come in the form of whole grain products, from wheat bread to brown rice, etc. Cakes, pastries, cookies and corn chips should be used sparingly. Three daily servings from this group are recommended. Vegetables should remain fresh if possible, or cooked to retain a fair amount of freshness and nutrients, as is done by steaming. Vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and celery can be chopped fresh and served with a small amount of vegetable dip or ranch dressing.