When the temperatures drop and the daylight hours are shorter, energy levels can take a big dip, right along with mood. Kids might be less active in the cold, winter months, making it extra important to focus on getting the right nutrition this time of year. Changes in mood, energy, focus, appetite and sleep aren’t uncommon but could be signs of a more serious underlying condition. Healthful food choices can help support your child’s mental health. Consider including the following foods to help your kids stay healthy — and happy — this winter.

Salmon

Emerging evidence links fish consumption with lower risk of depression. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown in some studies to help manage depression.  Try using a marinade or sauce your kids love or cut the fish into small pieces and make kebabs with veggies.

Clementines

Clementines are a winter citrus, packed with vitamin C, which helps keep immune systems strong. They also provide dietary fiber. Kids love that they're usually seedless, easy to peel and fun to eat, making them perfect for school lunchboxes or snacks. You also can toss the sections into salads to make greens more appealing.

Winter Squash

This family of foods most often includes acorn, butternut, and spaghetti squash.  Butternut squash is tasty in many soups on a cold winter day after your kids come in from playing in the snow.  Acorn squash can be roasted and tossed with cinnamon and maple syrup. Try combining spaghetti squash with your kid's favorite pasta sauce.  All winter squash are a good source of dietary fiber which can help give your child energy during those long school hours.

Sweet Potatoes

Another great source of dietary fiber are sweet potatoes. Slice into thin "coins" and toss with canola or olive oil before roasting. Sweet potato puree also can be used in foods including macaroni and cheese, oatmeal and brownies. Try swapping in baked sweet potatoes as an alternative to french fries. Have your kids help with peeling so they're involved in the cooking.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower is delicious on its own but easily blends with other flavors. It's rich in vitamin C and a good source of vitamin K for a healthy immune system and healthy bones. But that's not all. Cauliflower also is important for growth and development. Cauliflower is delicious roasted, but if your kid is averse to eating veggies, try making cauliflower "rice" in a food processor and adding it to stir-fries.