Child Calorie Needs Calculator

A typical 5-year-old needs about 1,200–1,400 calories per day, depending on sex and activity level. Active 5-year-olds may need up to 1,600 calories. These are averages — individual needs vary by growth rate, metabolism, and health status.

Most 10-year-olds need 1,400–2,000 calories per day. Boys tend to need slightly more than girls at this age. Very active children (playing sports, lots of outdoor play) may need 200–400 more calories than sedentary peers.

Counting calories is generally not recommended for children under 12 and can contribute to disordered eating. Instead, focus on food variety, regular mealtimes, eating together as a family, and responding to hunger and fullness cues. Use calorie estimates as background knowledge, not daily targets.

The Estimated Energy Requirement (EER) from the Institute of Medicine is a scientific equation that calculates average daily calorie needs using age, sex, weight, height, and physical activity level (PAL). It represents maintenance calories, not a target for weight loss or gain.

Teen boys typically need 2,000–3,200 calories per day, with very active boys needing the higher end. Teen girls typically need 1,600–2,400 calories. The wide range reflects differences in activity level, growth phase, and body size. Adolescents in growth spurts need more.

Children naturally regulate their food intake and often go through phases of eating more or less. As long as growth is on track (checked at well-child visits), energy is good, and there's no dramatic weight change, variation in appetite is normal. Consult your pediatrician if you have concerns about growth or eating patterns.