In a study, 41 first graders in Philadelphia were given large plates and allowed to served themselves.
The children took more food -- and consumed more calories.
A child's body mass index did not predict who would take more food. Children served themselves about 90 more calories when they used the large plate at lunch compared to a small plate.
If it was a food they really liked, they helped themselves to about 104 more calories.
Experts say about 17 percent of children ages 2-19 are considered obese in the US. Authors of the report, published in the journal Pediatrics, hope smaller plates may give children guidance on portion sizes.
