If children's caloric intake does not meet their total needs, what should be added?

When children's caloric intake does not meet their total needs, adding snacks is a highly effective strategy to help bridge the caloric gap. Snacks can be nutritionally dense, providing not only extra calories but also essential nutrients that are vital for growth and development. Children have smaller stomachs and may find it challenging to consume enough calories in three larger meals throughout the day, so incorporating healthy snacks can offer additional opportunities for them to meet their daily energy requirements without overwhelming them at mealtimes.

Snacks can also serve as an excellent way to introduce a variety of food groups, thus ensuring that children receive essential vitamins and minerals alongside the extra calories. This approach aligns well with the dietary habits of many children, who often prefer to eat smaller portions more frequently.

The other options may have their own merits, but they do not directly address the gap in caloric intake as effectively as adding snacks would. For instance, while adding more meals could potentially increase caloric intake, it might be impractical for some children's lifestyles or appetites. Increasing liquids may help with hydration but does not necessarily contribute to the caloric needs unless those liquids are calorie-dense (like smoothies). Adding additional vitamins could support nutritional needs but would not provide the necessary calories required if the calor