Optimally supplied with regular meals

Not only is the nutrient supply optimized with regular meals, in addition the day of the child receives structure. This should not be done exclusively through meals, but they can make an important contribution and put the day into a manageable and predictable framework for the child. This gives him security and the freedom to unfold undisturbed.

How many meals does a child need?

Infants eat very often. Your stomach is still small and can therefore take up little amount. The energy requirement is huge, however. If the children take solid food, the frequency usually settles down to five meals. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are the main meals, in between there is always a (healthy) extra meal. Try to eat with your child whenever possible. This promotes the sense of community and through your role model, the child learns almost incidentally the most important eating and behaving rules.

The main meals

Have breakfast like an emperor, lunch like a king, dinner like a beggar. So goes an old saying that is already justified for children. A rich breakfast provides energy for the day, lunch replenishes the memory and a light dinner ensures a peaceful and restful sleep. If your child sees this differently and has no desire to have breakfast, but all the more eager for a sumptuous supper, you should not worry too much. If your child is full and satisfied and sleeps well at night, then nothing is wrong.

As a rule, there is a warm main meal. Traditionally this is lunch, but in many families the warm meal is relegated to the evening for organizational reasons. In this case, keep in mind that if your child is already in kindergarten, take two warm meals a day and watch out for variety. Those who had noodles for lunch may not like to eat in the evening. The warm meal should be as complete and balanced as possible. A high proportion of vegetables and high-quality carbohydrates and low meat (twice a week is sufficient) are the children's needs best.

Depending on the child's taste, breakfast may consist of cereals or breads. Fruit and multi-chain carbohydrates, such as wholemeal bread or cereal, give your child the power they need to get them started for the first hours of the day. Do not forget to let your child drink. Especially kindergarten and school children often drink too little. The second cold main meal may also consist of bread. If she does not fall for the evening, you can go for salad, alternatively, many children like a fruit or vegetable plate as finger food.

Snacks in between

During the snacks, many parents turn to special children's products. Here you should note that foods for children generally contain too much sugar. Feed your child with a delicious sandwich, fruit or another bowl of cereal with fruit, served with yoghurt or milk. When using cereals, you should prefer mixed ones. Finished muesli mixtures often contain a lot of sugar. A snack may also consist of pastries or other sweets several times a week. Above all, make sure that your child then brushes his teeth or, if necessary, can chew a toothpaste chewing gum.

The size of the meals

Every child has a different nutritional requirement. It depends on age, gender, height, stature and urge to move. Stress is also a factor that can significantly affect your appetite. Whether your child eats enough, but not too much, you will see to a high degree of his energy level. If it is active and active, but without being agitated and uneasy, you can assume that the type and quantity of the diet are in order. If you find your child too thin or too fat, you can consult with the pediatrician. He will inform you about the wide range of children's dietary habits.

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