How Much Energy Kids Need
Big Idea
How Much Energy Kids Need: Under the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, kids ages 4–8 need about 1,200–2,000 calories a day and kids ages 9–13 need about 1,400–2,600, depending on age, size and activity. The focus is on balanced plates, not counting. (The numbers go in the parent box. Kids learn the "half fruits and veggies" plate.).
Story time
One morning at the sunny farm kitchen, Rosie and Owen talked about “how much energy kids need.” Good food gives kids energy to grow, learn and play. Rosie said, “Let's try it today!” Owen smiled and said, “Let's do it together.” By the end of the day, they both felt proud of the healthy choice they made.
Try it!
Make a rainbow plate with a grown-up: pick one food of each color you can find at home, then count the colors together.
Quick check
- What is the big idea of this lesson in your own words?
- What is one thing you can do today to practice it?
- Who could you do this with at home?
Free mini printable
Download the free “How Much Energy Kids Need” mini sheet (PDF)
One page with the big idea, the Try It! activity, a drawing box and the quick-check questions. Want more? Get the full section pack below.
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