Families are responsible for providing a nutritious morning tea and lunch in line with the preschool Nutrition Policy. Healthy food not only promotes good health and eating habits it ensures that meal times do not become a competition or stressful for children. Children in their first five years of life are developing rapidly and require a nutritious and safe diet for their intellectual, behavioural and physical development. Education and fun learning experiences in relation to healthy eating is also important for children’s development. Awareness of allergies contributes to strategies to provide a safe eating environment. Please also be mindful of packaging. We are environmentally aware and actively teach the children about recycling, in particular soft plastics, but ask families to reduce waste and rubbish and opt for using containers rather than individually wrapped items.

There is research-based evidence linking good nutrition with positive mental health outcomes. Poor diet is associated with a greater risk of anxiety, depression, behavioural and learning difficulties. We aim to promote good nutrition and establish healthy eating habits to support growth and development in the early years as well as for life-long health and wellbeing. Shoalhaven Community Preschool aims to provide a healthy, economical and friendly eating environment that promotes a safe and nutritious diet. We will also provide food and nutrition education that is consistent with national dietary guidelines for children.

We recognise the importance of encouraging and supporting families to provide healthy foods and drink for their children and aim to encourage communication with families about the provision of appropriate healthy food choices for children while at preschool. All staff have completed NSW Munch and Move training and we promote good nutrition and physical health every day through our preschool program. The Healthy Lunchbox website below is great for ideas on what to pack for your child.