Nutrition and Growth

Supporting Information

Poor nutrition in the first two years can slow a child's physical and mental development for the rest of her or his life.

In order to grow and stay healthy, young children need a variety of nutritious foods such as meat, fish, pulses, grains, eggs, fruits and vegetables, as well as breastmilk.

A child's stomach is smaller than an adult's, so a child cannot eat as much at one meal. But children's energy and body-building needs are great. So it is important that children eat frequently to provide for all their needs.

• Foods such as mashed vegetables, a little chopped meat, eggs or fish should be added to the child's food as often as possible. A small amount of oil may be added, preferably red palm oil or another vitamin-enriched oil.

If meals are served in a common dish, younger children may not get enough food. Young children should have their own plate or bowl of food to ensure they can eat what they need and so the parent or caregiver can see how much they have eaten.

Young children may need encouragement to eat and may need help in handling food or utensils. A child with a disability may need extra help eating and drinking.