HEALTHY EATING POLICY

I recognise that as a childminder I will have a strong influence on your child’s diet. I am aware of the importance of healthy eating, especially at an early age in order to establish good habits early.

I will offer a good balanced diet which will include all the necessary food groups. I am aware of the need to offer at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day and will include some of these in the meals and snacks offered.

Water will be available to drink at all times and milk and fruit juices will also be offered.

Sharing information will help both me and parents/carers of children when preparing and offering food.

I will inform parents/carers of what their child has eaten/been offered through the day by note, recording the information in child’s diary, by text message or by discussion when the child is collected.

A sample menu can be provided if needed.

I do not always plan meals in advance but if you feel you need to know in advance what your child will be offered please let me know and we will come to an arrangement where you will be told at least a day in advance.

Snacks/foods such as crisps, biscuits etc will be offered in moderation but not excluded.

I will always offer new foods to children and encourage them to try out new tastes and textures * BUT* I will never force a child to eat something he/she doesn’t want.

I will provide your child with opportunities to explore foods by planning play and activities themed around healthy eating. For eg. Fruit printing, smoothie making, baking.