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Health Topics
How Eating Affects Learning
Ages and Stages
1- to 3-year-olds need optimal nutrition for growth and development of
all organs and systems in their bodies. The brain’s developmental function
and structure is considered most important at this age.
4- to 6-year-olds’ nutritional needs increase as they develop
more demand upon their neurons. Their activity level increases at this age and
requires more nutrients for functioning.
7- to 10-year-olds are beginning to write and read more sophisticatedly
and are making many more message connections via neurotransmitters. Therefore,
their daily diet should reflect this increased need.
11- to 14-year-olds are developing increasing levels of hormones along with physical growth,
which accounts for the difference in nutritional needs at this age. Hormones
can play a role in a child’s success in learning and growth.
15- to 18-year-olds tend to sleep less and increase the demand put on
their body as a whole. In addition, these children are beginning to encounter
and deal with more daily stresses. Nutritional needs should meet this increase.
— Kelly Hammer and Vicki Caruana
Kelly Hammer is a pre-school teacher and the founder of Hammer Nutrition — Working
to Build Healthier Families. Vicki Caruana, former public school teacher and adjunct
professor, is now a writer and inspirational speaker who has made it her mission
to encourage teachers.
Last updated July 2004
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