Children's Portion Sizes

It can be confusing to figure out what healthy children's portion sizes are. In this world of super sized foods for teens and adults, we often overestimate the amount of food we feel our children need. When feeding your child, keep in mind most children will eat when they are hungry and stop when they are full. The problem comes in when they do not feel hunger or satiation or are extremely selective eaters because of an emotional or medical condition. Although I have created a reference of appropriate serving sizes for children below, please keep in mind that every child is different and there is not a one size fits all approach. If you are not sure of how much to feed your child, it's a good idea to consult with a dietitian who can evaluate your child and give customized recommendations based on her observations.

Toddler Serving Sizes

Rice, pasta, cereal ¼ cup

Veggies or fruit 2 Tbs.

Canned fruit ¼ cup

Milk and yogurt ½ cup

Cheese 1 oz

Meat, poultry, fish 1 oz

Eggs ½

Beans 2 Tbs.

Healthy Serving Sizes for Preschoolers

Rice, pasta or cereal ½ cup

Fruits or veggies ¼ cup

Canned fruit ½ cup

Milk and yogurt ¾ cup

Cheese 1½ oz

Meat, Poultry, Fish 1½ oz

Eggs 1

Beans ¼ cup

Serving Sizes for Children ages 5 years and older

Rice, Pasta, Cereal ½ cup

Veggies or Fruit ½ cup or one small piece

Canned Fruit ½ cup

Milk and Yogurt 1 cup (8 oz)

Cheese 1½ to 2 oz

Meat. Poultry, Fish 2½ to 3 oz

Eggs 1

Beans ½ cup

Please remember that this chart is to be used as a guide and represents standard children's portion sizes. If your child is healthy and does not have any medical problems, let her lead and let you know what the appropriate serving size for her is. It is your responsibility to know when you need to over ride your child's cues to provide them with the best nutrition possible, however it is important to know when to trust her and teach her to trust her body's cues.

For more customized, individualized options, make an appointment today!

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