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Children's Daily Calories & Diets

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, many Americans consume too many calories, but not enough nutrients. Adequate nutrition is key for children and adolescents because growth and development occur during these years.

  1. 2 to 3 years of age

    • Children between the ages of 2 and 3, should consume 1,000 to 1,400 calories per day depending upon activity level.

    4 to 8 years of age

    • Girls between the ages of 4 and 8, should consume 1,200 to 1,800 calories per day depending upon activity level.

      Boys between the ages of 4 and 8, should consume 1,400 to 2,000 calories per day depending upon activity level.

    9 to 13 years of age

    • Girls between the ages of 9 and 13, should consume 1,600 to 2,200 calories per day depending upon activity level.

      Boys between the ages of 9 and 13, should consume 1,800 to 2,600 calories per day depending upon activity level.

    14 to 18 years of age

    • Girls between the ages of 14 and 18, should consume 1,800 to 2,400 calories per day depending upon activity level.

      Boys between the ages of 14 and 18, should consume 2,200 to 3,200 calories per day depending upon activity level.

    Healthy Choices

    • A healthy diet for children consists of five servings of fruits and vegetables per day; protein in the form of lean mean, nuts and eggs; whole-grain breads and cereals; and calcium-rich foods like low-fat milk and yogurt. Limits should be placed on your child's consumption of soda, fried food and fast food.

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