Because young children cannot eat a lot at one time, they need one or more snacks throughout the day. Snacks are important because they give children energy. Boys and girls grow fast and they use a lot of energy when they run and play. Using energy makes children hungry. It is hard for them to wait until mealtime.
Snack times help keep children from becoming overly-tired and grumpy.
They also help children slow down and rest. That is why some families have snacks just before going to bed. Most babies do not eat snacks. Infants need to be fed when they are hungry. They should have foods they are used to eating such as milk, formula, or prepared baby food.