Young children need to develop healthy eating and physical activity habits early on. Children pattern habits after parents and caregivers. Good role models are important. Preschoolers quickly grow and change physically, mentally, and socially. Preschoolers need healthy food to meet their growth and developmental needs. Parents and caregivers know the importance of nutrition to a child's physical and mental development to grow and develop. However, they also need to be good role models. Meal and snack times teach sharing and socializing skills.