When teaching a parent about nutrition for a school-age child (ages 6-12), which of the following is MOST important to emphasize?

SCHOOL-AGE NUTRITION is foundational to healthy growth, cognitive function, and lifelong dietary patterns. Key principles: BALANCED DIET: use MyPlate as a visual guide — half the plate fruits and vegetables; one quarter whole grains; one quarter lean protein; dairy on the side; BREAKFAST: research consistently links eating breakfast to better concentration, memory, and school performance; children who skip breakfast have more behavioral problems and lower academic achievement; limit added sugars (in breakfast cereals, juices, pastries) and provide protein and whole grains; FRUITS AND VEGETABLES: aim for 5+ servings daily; varied colors provide different micronutrients; WHOLE GRAINS: choose whole wheat bread, oatmeal, brown rice over refined grains; LEAN PROTEIN: chicken, fish, beans, eggs, nuts (school-age children need more protein for growth); DAIRY/CALCIUM: critical for bone development during school years; milk, yogurt, cheese or calcium-fortified alternatives; LIMIT: added sugars (soft drinks, candy, pastries), excessive sodium (processed/fast foods), saturated fats; OBESITY PREVENTION: approximately 20% of school-age children in the US have obesity, associated with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular risk, joint problems, social issues; promote physical activity alongside nutrition; SPECIAL NEEDS: iron-rich foods for girls who begin menstruation; calcium and vitamin D throughout growth; if vegetarian/vegan family, assess for B12, iron, zinc adequacy. PN TEACHING TIP: involve children in food preparation; avoid labeling foods as 'good' or 'bad' (can create disordered relationships with food); role-model healthy eating.