Good Nutrition

Summer is a good time to encourage healthy eating! Delicious fruits and veggies are everywhere!
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has revamped their tradition food pyramid to account for the different dietary needs of individuals. You can find out more information at http://www.choosemyplate.gov/
According to the Child Care Education Institute, “Veggies should account for about 30 percent of a meal, as should grains (at least half of which should be high fiber whole grains).
It is worth noting that the USDA and most dieticians, place as much emphasis on calories as on food types. In particular, they warn against giving children sugary beverages, which unfortunately account for a large percentage of many children's daily calories and have been shown to contribute greatly to childhood obesity.
Child care professionals and parents are strongly encouraged to check out the resources available on the USDA website. Experts at the USDA have done the homework for you! They have research-backed information to help grownups make informed decisions and set good examples for the children in their lives.”