Which of the following represents the calcium RDA for children ages 4–8 years old?

• A. 800 mg/day
• B. 1000 mg/day
• C. 1200 mg/day
• D. 1500 mg/day

Answer: (B)

Calcium needs are age-specific, with the daily amount set to meet nearly all healthy kids’ needs in that age range. For children aged 4 to 8, the recommended daily calcium intake is 1000 mg. This amount supports bone growth during a period of rapid development and corresponds to typical dietary patterns that can provide calcium through dairy, fortified foods, and certain greens. Values lower than this risk insufficient calcium for bone mineralization, while the higher amounts listed would exceed the standard recommendation for this age and are more appropriate for older children or different guidelines (older kids and adolescents need more, around 1300 mg/day).