Pediatric Nutrition
Part of Strong Memorial Hospital
During the growing years between infancy and adolescence, adequate nutrition is of utmost importance. Your child's diet will not only support their normal growth and development, but also supports their immune system, and develops lifelong eating habits. Although dietary needs, appetites, and tastes will vary widely throughout childhood, it is important to consistently provide your child with healthy options from all of the major food groups.
Throughout these years—especially babyhood—your child's doctor will closely monitor his or her growth, following increases in length/height, weight, and head circumference on growth curves in relation to increasing age. This close monitoring allows your child's doctor to recognize any growth problems such as failure to thrive, overweight, or other potential growth problems. Early recognition can lead to early intervention, which can provide your child with the tools he or she needs to grow and develop properly.
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