Preschoolers are children between one and six years. From being totally dependent as infants, the preschool children can walk, talk, run and play. This is the age when food habits will be formed.

The preschool years are therefore important in the child's life because they form the foundation for nutritional and health practices.

During preschool years, growth proceeds at a slower rate than during infancy. The preschooler is very active, alert and is busy exploring the environment. He gains control over his body and movements. The child can eat by himself. He has wrist control and therefore he can hold a cup and also eat by himself. During the second and third years, preschoolers need less food. The amount of food eaten will vary from one child to another. Mothers need not be unduly worried about these changes. You should worry only if the child is repeatedly falling ill, is lethargic and apathetic and has not gained weight for a prolonged period.

The child must be taught good food habits because, the eating habits he forms at this time will stay with him for life.
During the preschool years, food often takes a secondary place because the child is interested in so many different things.

During the preschool years, the child must take about 2-3 glasses of milk per day and 4 eggs per week. Vegetables and fruits should be included in diet to meet the protein requirement.