How does food and nutrition work in childcare?
We support children's health and development by providing nutritious food and helping children build positive eating habits. Healthy eating in the early years supports growth, learning and overall wellbeing.
Mealtimes are also an important part of children's learning and development. Children learn about food, independence, social skills and healthy routines through regular eating experiences in a calm and supportive environment.
At BestStart, some centres provide meals and snacks, while others operate as lunchbox centres. Food is prepared in line with Ministry of Health and Healthy Heart guidelines, and many centres hold a Gold Healthy Heart award. Children are closely supervised while eating, and teachers support positive mealtime experiences through encouragement, role modelling and age-appropriate feeding practices.
Good to know
- Eating habits developed during the early years can help shape children's relationship with food later in life.
- Children are often more willing to try new foods when they see other children enjoying a variety of foods at mealtimes.
- Mealtimes provide opportunities for children to practise skills such as communication, sharing, turn-taking and self-help skills.
Book a visit
Enquire now
Phone
