Children need a balanced diet with food from all 3 food groups&#8212;vegetables and fruit, whole grain products, and protein foods. Children need 3 meals a day and 1 to 3 snacks (morning, afternoon and possibly before bed). Healthy snacks are just as important as the food you serve at meals. A regular diet is <b>a healthy meal plan</b> that includes a variety of healthy foods from all the food groups. Follow this meal plan if you do not have any health conditions that require a special diet. A healthy meal plan is low in unhealthy fats, salt, and added sugar. Children should get lots of vegetables, fruits, grains (preferably at least half whole grains), protein (lean meats, poultry, eggs, seafood, beans, peas, nuts, soy), dairy (including lactose-free and fortified soy dairy products), and healthy oils