The federal government has developed standard guidelines for
meal planning, to ensure a child receives balanced meals with
adequate nutrition. Most state regulations require licensed
caregiver's to follow these guidelines. The suggested meal plans
vary according to age. Daycare centers are generally expected to
provide about half of a child's daily nutritional needs, and
should serve food according to the following approximations. For
ages one to three, children should have an ounce of protein,
which can be meat, cheese, beans or eggs; and a quarter cup each
of vegetables and fruit. Half of a cup of fruit juice can be
substituted for the recommended fruit serving. For ages four to
six, an ounce and a half of meat, or an egg will meet the
protein requirement, while a half-cup each of vegetables and
fruit is recommended. If your child is seven years or older, two
ounces of meat or an egg, as well as three ounces of cheese or a
cup of cooked beans or peas will be sufficient. Children this
age should have three q