Calories-Calculating A Child’s Daily Needs

In order to maintain normal growth and good health, your child has two important needs: an adequate intake of calories, and a balanced diet that supplies a wide range of essential nutrients. Calories supply the energy needed for growth, and keep you from feeling hungry. The number of calories a child needs varies according to the child’s size, growth rate and activity level.

In general, if you want to know how many calories (per day) your child needs, a good rule of thumb for children up to 5 years of age is to begin with a base of 1,000 calories and add 100 calories for each year of your child’s age.

For example:

  • A 1 year-old would need approximately 1000 + 100 calories for 1 year, or 1100 calories/day.
  • A 2 year-old would need 1000 + 200 calories for 2 years, or 1200 calories/day.

With this simple equation, you can calculate the approximate number of calories your child needs in order to maintain normal growth.

Printer Friendly Version

Pediatrician DR.PAUL Roumeliotis is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. The information provided above is designed to be an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace the advice and care of your child’s physician, nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you suspect that your child has a medical condition always consult a physician.