What are the basics of nutrition for this age group? 
 
 Anayely Jaimes:
 Dietary recommendations for school-age children include..
 
 -2 1/2 cups of a variety of vegetables
 -1 1/2 cup of a variety of fruits 
 -5 oz of grains ( tortilla, brown rice, breakfast cereals)
 -5 oz of protein (Fish, legumes, chicken) 
 -3 cups of fortified nonfat milk or dairy products
 -Keep processed sugars to fewer than 10% of daily total calories
 -They need to limit saturated fat intake, instead using mono and polysaturated fats ( total fat not to exceed 25-35% of total daily calories) 
 
 Caloric and protein requirements begin to increase at about age 11 because of the preadolescent growth spurt.

Eat seafood, dairy or fortified soy alternatives, beans, peas, and lentils to help maintain muscle mass. Add fruits and vegetables to your meals and snacks. If slicing and chopping is a challenge, choose frozen, canned, or ready-to-eat options. Turn eating into a social event.