Teaching children about the main food groups

Helping children learn about different foods can make healthy eating feel fun rather than like a set of rules.

Starchy foods for energy

Bread, rice, pasta, potatoes and oats give children energy for playing and learning. Wholegrain versions add fibre.

Foods that help them grow

Beans, eggs, fish, lean meat and dairy foods support growth and help children feel full.

Fruit and vegetables

Aim for a range of colours across the week. Fresh, frozen and tinned all count.

Make it playful

• Talk about energy foods and growing foods
• Let children pick a new fruit or vegetable to try
• Use colours to make plates interesting