March 2026 Issue of The Whistler
National Nutrition Month, established by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, highlights how daily food choices affect our health and well-being. Celebrated in March, it encourages balanced meals, smart shopping, and healthy habits. It’s a chance for families to cook, try new foods, read labels, and discuss nutrition. Teaching kids’ healthy habits early is key. The focus is on positive changes and enjoying meals together.
🌟 Healthy Eating Guidelines for Young Children
🥚 1. Offer Protein at Every Meal and Snack
Protein helps kids grow, build strong muscles, and stay full longer.
Easy options:
- Scrambled or boiled eggs
- Grilled or baked chicken
- Ground beef or turkey (without added fillers)
- Plain yogurt
- Cheese
- Nut butters (if age-appropriate and no allergy)
🥛 2. Choose Unsweetened Dairy
Pick dairy products without added sugar.
Good choices:
- Plain whole-milk yogurt
- Milk
- Cheese
- Cottage cheese
👉 Skip flavored yogurts with added sugar.
🍎 3. Serve Fruits and Vegetables Every Day
Fruits and veggies give kids vitamins, minerals, and fiber for healthy digestion.
Tips:
- Offer a fruit or vegetable at every meal.
- Choose whole fruit instead of juice.
- If giving 100% juice, keep portions small or mix with water.
🥑 4. Include Healthy Fats
Healthy fats support brain development and help kids feel satisfied.
Good options:
- Avocado slices
- Olive oil or butter for cooking
- Nut butters
- Seeds (age-appropriate)
🚫 5. Limit Highly Processed and Sugary Foods
Foods that are very salty or sweet can crowd out healthier options.
Limit:
- Chips
- Cookies
- Candy
- Packaged snack foods
- Sugary cereals
🥤 6. Avoid Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks can cause energy crashes and tooth decay.
Avoid:
- Soda
- Fruit drinks
- Sports and energy drinks
Offer instead:
- Water
- Milk
- Diluted 100% fruit juice (occasionally)
🌾 7. Choose Whole Grains
Whole grains give kids more fiber and nutrients.
Try:
- Oatmeal
- Brown rice
- Whole-grain bread
- Whole-grain tortillas
- Quinoa
💛 Simple Family Rule of Thumb
At most meals, aim for:
- A protein
- A fruit or vegetable
- A whole grain
- A healthy fat
Keep foods simple, balanced, and mostly homemade when possible.
Important Dates
March 2nd – March 6th – Classrooms NO SCHOOL (Except Child Care Centers will be OPEN)
March 20th – Classrooms (NO SCHOOL) and Office Closed
Resources
Click First Step Baby Expo Image for more details.
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