While it is important for children to learn early about healthy eating habits such as lower-fat eating, growing children can handle a little more fat than adults. During this time, children can be eating both the lower-fat foods as enjoyed by the whole family and include some of the nutritious, higher fat foods too. As children become adolescents and approach the end of growth, the lower-fat food choices should take on more significance in the diet. Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating recommends a daily healthy eating pattern for all Canadians age 4 and over. My children are after me constantly for candy, fruit leathers, pop, popsicles, chips, and chocolate bars.
Snacks are often as important as meals in providing essential nutrients.
That's why the best snacks will be made from foods from the four food groups. But as you know, children like and ask for snacks like candy and chips too. When sweet snacks are eaten however, children should be encouraged to brush their teeth afterwards to protect against cavities. Eating a wide variety of foods is an important part of healthy eating. It's the simplest and surest way to get all the nutrients needed for good health.