This seems like a simple question, but the answer depends on your child's age, gender, weight, health status, and baseline activity level.  The American Academy of Pediatrics (in association with the American Heart Association) recently published an article that lists basic estimates for children. 

Calories (kcal) per day

Another way to obtain a reasonable estimate of daily calorie needs is to take 1000 and add the age in years multiplied by 100.  For example, an 8 year old would need 1000 + (8 * 100) = 1800 kcal per day. 

• For children who need to lose weight, these estimates may need to be lower.
• For children trying to gain weight, these estimates may need to be higher.
• Very active children (or athletes) may need more calories per day.

Fat % (as a percentage of calories)

Intake of trans fats, saturated fats, and cholesterol should be limited.  Mono- and poly-unsaturated fats are "heart healthy" but don't forget that they have calories! (9 kcal/gm)

Recommended amount of milk/dairy

• 1 to 8 years old: 2 cups per day
• Older than 8 years: 3 cups per day

Lean meat or beans (ounces)

Fruit (cups)

A variety of fruits should be eaten.

Vegetables (cups)

A variety of vegetables should be eaten.

Grains (ounces)

Half of all grains should be whole grains.

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