An Apple a Day: Introducing Nutrition to Elementary Age Children

Since apples are low in calories and sodium and high in fiber and Vitamin C, it's no wonder variations of this proverb, "An apple a day, keeps the doctor away." have been used for over 200 years. Even if you make healthy choices for you and your family, it's important that they have a basic understanding of nutrition so that they will make healthy choices for themselves.

This guide from teachkids2eat.com is meant to help you introduce nutrition basics to your elementary age children.

Eat often

Eating small, frequent meals is the best way for your body to digest and metabolize foods.

Don’t skip meals

The most important meal of the day is breakfast!! Many studies suggest that a healthy breakfast and  overall healthy eating help to improve memory, test grades, and school attendance.

Make your foods a variety of colors

…and we are not talking about Cheetos, M&M’s, and Doritos!

Eat lots of fruits and vegetables

This will give you the variety of colors which offers lots of vitamins, minerals and fiber too!!

Choose foods that are low in fat

Look for foods that are steamed, stir-fried, grilled, broiled, baked, roasted.  Use healthy cooking oils (olive oil) and PAM Non-Stick Cooking Spray.

Don’t drink your calories…

Drinking water is so important to keep your body hydrated.

Eat a variety of foods

Kids are picky.  Kids need to be offered a new food at least 15 times before they may be willing to accept it.  Keep offering and eventually they will try it and might even like it!!

Exercise!

Children ages 4-8 need a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise per day, 6 days per week. 

For more interactive, free printables, puzzles and games, visit www.nourishinteractive.com 

How do you and your family encourage eating healthy and staying active?