342 Chapter 13 Nutrition Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. As children grow teeth and learn to control chewing and swallowing, table foods can replace strained baby foods. Foods should be cut into small pieces and offered in small servings. As energy needs increase, larger servings can be offered. Needs of Children and Teens As children grow, their nutritional needs continue to change. Their food preferences also change. Caregivers must help children sample and select a variety of foods from each of the food groups. Nutrition During the Preschool Years Adults and children need the same nutrients. However, preschool children need larger proportions of nutrients to support their rapid growth. Caregivers need to make a special effort to include vitamins A and C in the diets of preschoolers. Raw fruits and vegetables, which are good sources of these vitamins, can be offered as snacks. Most preschoolers cannot eat enough at mealtimes to meet all their nutrient needs. Thus, snacks are needed to supplement nutrients provided by meals. In addition to fruits and vegetables, nutritious snacks include cheese cubes, cereals, and crackers spread with peanut butter. Adults play a key role in teaching preschoolers good eating habits. Children are great imitators. If an adult refuses a certain food, a preschool child is likely to refuse it, too. Adults can encourage good nutrition by offering children a variety of nutritious food choices. Adults also need to set an example by eating nourishing foods with their children. Nutrition During the Early School Years Starting school changes a child’s daily routine and eating schedule. A nutritious, energy- packed breakfast is needed to help children stay alert in class. While at school, children are exposed to the eating habits of others. They may refuse a food simply because their peers do not eat it. Children may sometimes need to be encouraged to eat well- balanced lunches at school. They need the energy and nutrients provided by fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy foods. See 13-12. Healthy Living Carbonated Soft Drinks Versus Milk Recent studies show that the majority of teens do not get enough calcium in their diets to promote strong bones and healthy teeth. Part of the reason for this problem is that teens tend to choose carbonated soft drinks over milk. These soft drinks do not contain calcium or other nutrients, but do contain phosphates that can actually leach calcium from bones and teeth. Some studies show that teens who drink carbonated soft drinks are more likely to have bone fractures, dental problems, and problems with obesity. Choosing milk not only strengthens bones and teeth, but also promotes good health.