How Many Calories Does a Child Need?
May 07, 2009
Parents often ask how many calories their children need, but for the average child who is growing and developing normally and has a normal activity level, counting calories is usually not necessary.
In general though, knowing how many calories your child needs each day can help you plan your child's nutrition and make sure he is eating a healthy diet. Being familiar with calorie requirements can also be helpful in evaluating children with failure to thrive, who are gaining weight well, and for children who are overweight.
For younger children, calorie recommendations and average energy
needs depend on their age. Remember that these are just averages
though, some children will require more calories and some will
require less. The amount of calories that allows your child to grow
normally is likely what is 'enough' for him/her.
Age
Average
Calorie Needs Each Day
0-5 months 650
5-12 months 850
1-3 years 1300
4-6 years 1800
7-10 years 2000
In addition to age, for older children, calorie requirements are
also determined by their sex, with boys, in general, requiring more
calories than girls. Other factors include a child's size, body
composition and level of activity. A very active teen at the top of
the growth charts will likely need many more calories than a
smaller and/or less active child.
Boys
Average
Calorie Needs Each Day
11-14 years
2500
15-18 years
3000
Girls
Average
Calorie Needs Each Day
11-14 years
2200
15-18 years
2200
From: keepkidshealthy.com
