Question

D 2. A single dad of a 4-year-old preschooler went to the school nurse and wanted to know why the nurse had sent home a note to remind parents to encourage their children to eat more fruits and vegetables. a) Cite the dietary guidelines designed for young children's diets and describe the quantities of vegetables that would be necessary to meet the 4 year old's needs. b) Give three examples of possible vegetables the dad could offer this child. Include the portion sizes.

Answer 1

Preschooler : A child who is educated at preschool (3-5 years).

a) Vegetables for a Preschooler

Nutritional diet is important for a preschooler as the child is in a growing as well as highly active stage . All of the food groups such as grains, milk, fruits, vegetables and meat can be added to the child's daily menu.

Quantities of vegetables for four year old child:

A preschooler , 4 years old, should have 1 and 1/2 cup ( one and half cup) of vegetables, that can be cooked or raw per day. The vegetable group in the diet for a four year old child should contain the variety of items such as orange, dark green and red vegies, broccoli ( can be shallow fried), tomatoes and smashed potatoes etc.

A preschool child need the vegetables as well as the fruits for:

*his growth, development and learning .

* getting adequate vitamins, dietary fibre and minerals

* to boost vitality and energy

* to prevent overweight

* to reduce chronic diseases such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol and heart diseases.

Amount of fruits and vegetables, a four year old should take per day is : 5 cups ( ~750 g).

b) Examples of vegetables

1. Carrot and cucumber mixed salad with sprinked lemon juice and salt : 1/ 3rd of a cup

2. chopped vegies ( tomatoes, cabbage, celery, spring onions, asparagus) with salsa or yogurt dips : 1/2 cup

3. cooked and smashed sweet potato: 1/2 cup

Bell peppers, lettuce, spinach ( lightly cooked) can be added to the diet. Toast can be added with mushrooms or bananas. Decorate lunch boxe with vegie sticks in varying length. Pasta sauce can be made with veggies.