A healthy child gets one-third of his daily calorie requirement from additional food (i.e., snacks) in addition to his regular meals! Children who are growing and require high levels of energy, and whose appetites are small, the standard three meals a day are definitely not enough. Moreover, children's appetites change during a period of rapid growth and high energy consumption, so adding the right amount of food will ensure that the child's body maintains a stable level of energy until the next meal. What kinds of snacks are best for children? Nutritious foods that are rich in sugar, protein, and vitamins A and C. These foods are colorful and shaped. The colors and shapes of these foods should be as colorful as possible to appeal to children. Whole wheat bread baked into interesting shapes is a good choice. Low-sugar, baked cereals are also healthy. For example, several different shapes of dry, chewy crackers and breads, mixed with raisins or other dried fruit, make a tasty, nutritious children's snack. Fruits and vegetables are essential ingredients for a good, healthy diet. It is ideal for children to eat 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day, and to eat fresh fruit or drink fruit juice whenever possible. It is important not to forget to tear or cut them lengthwise. Grapes and cherries should be eaten cut in half and the pits removed. Also, raw vegetables and fruits taste more appetizing when dipped in jam. Milk and other daily foods are also essential for young children. Whole milk is recommended for children under 2 years of age, and low-fat milk is recommended for children over 2 years of age. Whenever possible, add diced vegetables or jams to snacks to meet the vitamin needs of the developing body. Meat, poultry, fish, dried beans, eggs and nuts should also be on the menu. These foods contain protein, which is essential for growing children, and are a good source of iron, which the body needs.