Teach-Early-Years-14.1

BETH DOWNIE IS A REGISTERED NUTRITIONIST Is snacking a problem? Growing children need plenty of energy, but it’s important that they get it from the right places, says Beth Downie … O ver the past few decades, snacking has become an increasingly common part of children’s daily routines. But this raises an important question: is it driven by genuine physiological need, or is it simply a matter of habit and desire? Many parents and caregivers worry about their children’s snacking habits – and it’s easy to see why. In the UK, many school-aged children are consuming up to four high-sugar snacks each day! This is partly due to the vast array of snack foods and convenience items marketed to children and their parents, starting as early as the weaning stage. DO CHILDREN NEED SNACKS? Is there a role for snacks in a healthy, balanced diet? Research suggests that, yes, healthy snacks can play an important role in maintaining a balanced diet. Children, especially during periods of rapid growth, need to eat little and often to meet their high energy demands and nutrient requirements. Since children have smaller stomachs than adults, they can’t consume large portions in a single mealtime. When spaced appropriately, they may benefit from a healthy snack to contribute essential energy and nutrients to the diet and help to bridge any gaps of longer than three hours between meals. THE ISSUES The key to whether snacking is beneficial or detrimental depends 20 Teachearlyyears.com