What should a 5 year old be eating and how much?

A 5-year-old should have a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein sources (like lean meats, fish, beans, and eggs), and dairy or dairy alternatives. They typically need about 1,400 to 1,600 calories per day, which can be broken down into three meals and two snacks. Serving sizes should be child-appropriate, generally consisting of about 1/2 cup of fruits and vegetables, 1 ounce of grains, and 1-2 ounces of protein per meal. It's important to offer healthy choices and encourage them to listen to their hunger cues.