It is one of the most important periods in nutrition because it is the fastest period of growth and development, covering the period from kindergarten to high school.

Because it encompasses physical growth and development, as well as emotional and spiritual development, it's crucial for a child to receive all the essential vitamins and minerals, as well as appropriate amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. During this period, nutrition should be rich in a variety of products that support normal growth and development, be controlled, and enhance academic and life success, as it represents a transition from reliance on mothers or caregivers to self-feeding.

To ensure adequate and balanced nutrition, the nutrients that should be consumed during the day should be as listed below.

- Milk and yogurt group 3-4 servings
- Meat or legume group 2-3 servings
- Fruit group 2 servings
- Bread and cereal group 3-6 servings
- Oil and oilseeds 2-3 servings

An unhealthy, inadequate, or unbalanced diet during this period can lead to problems such as obesity or excessive weight gain, iron deficiency, vitamin D deficiency, and calcium deficiency. Therefore, we must ensure that children in this age group consume at least five meals a day, covering all food groups. Breakfast, the most important meal of the day, should be eaten at home. Along with lunch and dinner, snacks should be provided consisting of at least fruit and nuts or fruit and dairy products. It's also important for them to drink around 2 liters of water throughout the day.

It is necessary to ensure that fast food, soft drinks, chips, biscuits containing corn syrup, syrupy desserts, cakes and pastries are consumed less and to raise awareness in our children on this issue.

However, children who do not eat a healthy diet and eat mainly the foods mentioned above will experience growth retardation, an increased risk of infection, weakened bone and dental health, a slowdown in mental and physical development, and consequently, a decrease in academic success.

We must prioritize the development of our children and do what is necessary by ensuring that they have a healthy, adequate and balanced diet and do appropriate physical activity.