Teach children the importance of dairy products. Milk and other dairy products are essential to the healthy growth of teeth and bones. According to the Food Pyramid, preschool children should consume 2 to 3 cups of milk each day. One cup of yogurt or 1/2 ounce of cheese is also equivalent to 1 cup of milk.
Teach children the importance of vegetables. Vegetables are important because they are high in protein, iron, zinc, carbohydrates, fiber and minerals, all factors that are important to the growth of healthy hair, teeth, skin and eyes. The daily recommended portion for preschoolers is 1 cup of cooked or raw vegetables. One cup of vegetable juice is also equivalent to a cup of raw or cooked vegetables. However, children need to understand that they need a variety of vegetables in their weekly diet.
Help children to understand healthy snacks. When children are active, they need constant energy to keep them going strong. Teach preschool children that a healthy snack should contain a good source of protein (such as peanut butter), carbohydrates (such as fruit) and calcium (such as yogurt). In an effort to keep your children from wanting sugary snacks, explain to them that some foods are "sometimes" snacks and should not be eaten often.
Help children understand the importance of fruit. Fruits help your body to fight diseases and keep your immune system healthy. For preschool children, the daily recommended portion of fruit is 1 to 1 1/2 cups.
Teach children about the importance of the grain group. According to the Food Pyramid, the majority of the daily allowance of grain is 4 to 5 ounces. Grains are important to preschool children because they are rich in fiber and help give the children the energy they need in order to learn.