As adults, we are often reminded about the benefits of good nutrition and healthy eating habits, yet we often forget about our impact and influence on children. We know nutrition is important and we must consider and make mealtimes a priority AND promote nutrition and healthy lifestyles, but how do we do it? How do we provide the space and environments that allow children to get excited about all things nutrition?
At our centre, mealtimes are designed to foster healthy eating habits in a child appropriate environment - smaller cutlery, smaller tongs so it's easier for children to grab food, smaller cups etc.
appropriately sized utensils foster self help skills and teach independence.
How can my child’s nutritional needs be met?
The National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (NHMRC) recommends children and adolescents maintain a varied diet which includes the five main food groups. According to the NHMRC, children and adolescents need to be encouraged to eat plenty of:
vegetables, fruit and legumes
cereals (including breads, rice, pasta and noodles) preferably wholegrain
The Council also states that a healthy diet includes:
lean meat, fish, poultry
milks, yoghurts, cheeses
limited servings of saturated fats, margarine, butter and oils.
The balance of these food groups is essential for maintaining your child’s health and wellbeing. You should encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day - the NHMRC’s drink of choice!
Healthy snacks throughout the day will also help maintain your child’s energy levels.
At South Partamatta Granville Preschool we invite families to bring a favourite fruit 🍎 or vegetable 🥦 so children can share with their friends and engage in conversation about why eating healthy is important!
Our fresh produce delivery!
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