Nutrition Policy

8.14 NUTRITION

a)    At Sand Dunes we recognize the need to promote healthy eating for all our children, parents, whanua and teachers.
b)    Water will be provided at all times.
c)    Children will be taught about the reasons for a healthy diet.
d)    A well balanced nutritional weekly menu will be provided through a four weekly cycle.
e)    Information will be provided to parents and families about healthy eating.
f)    Children will be involved in the food preparation and cooking of meals.
g)    An environment that is enjoyable and that promotes fun and healthy eating will be implemented and maintained.
h)    Healthy eating behaviours will be role modelled to children and families.
i)    Different cultured foods will be provided and encouraged.
j)    Family’s cultural and special dietary requirements will be supported.
k)    Food provided for the children will be safe and appetising meeting the nutrition guidelines for babies, toddlers and children 2-12 years of age.
l)    Activities and experiences that focus on food and nutrition will be provided and incorporated into the centre’s daily programme.
m)   The centre will provide and maintain our own vegetable garden enabling children o learn about vegetables and fruit, developing a respect for our environment and the living world.
n)    All staff and children will ensure uses good food hygiene and washing procedures.
o)    Current research in regards to healthy eating will be kept up to date.
p)    Birthdays will be celebrated with a cake cooked on the premises and healthy party food will be provided by parents.
q)    A karakia will be said before all meals by teachers and children.
r)    The four weekly menus will be displayed visibly to parents.
s)    All meals and snacks will meet the quality objective from the ‘Nutritional guidelines for under fives’. The menu will include at least fifty percent of the recommended serves in each food group.
t)    Food for the under twos will be provided the same. If this is not suitable a close alternative is provided.
u)    Children’s likes and dislikes are respected however they are encouraged to try and experience new foods.
v)    Sand Dunes Early Learning Centre is a nut free zone, therefore no nuts, peanut butter will be kept on the premises.
w)    Children with special dietary and allergy food requirements are respected and catered to – consultation occurs with parents/ whanau. All staff  are familiar with these requirements.
x)    Food preparation and storage of food is off a high standard of hygiene.