Nutrition Policy

We are committed to promoting healthy eating habits and supporting families in providing nutritious meals for their children. Our policies reflect guidance from the Canada Food Guide and comply with the Child Care Licensing Regulation (Section 48).

Meals and Snacks from Home

Parents are required to provide the following each day:

• 1 breakfast (if the child arrives before 8:00 AM)
• 2 snacks
• 1 lunch

All food containers and drink bottles must be clearly labelled with the child’s name.
Unlabeled food or drink will not be served under any circumstances.

Storage and Heating

• All perishable food, including milk and formula, must be kept in the refrigerator when not in use.
• Food may be heated in the microwave in the container it came in from home.
• If food is packed in a glass container and the child is under 36 months, the food must be transferred to a facility-provided bowl or plate for heating.
• Leftover food will be sent home in the original container so parents can observe their child's eating habits, preferences, and portions.

Safe Eating Practices

• Staff must always check the Allergies and Dietary Alert List before serving food.
• Children with food allergies or restrictions must be seated to avoid cross-contamination.
• Children may not share food with others at any time.
• Staff may only serve food not brought from home with written parental authorization.

Food Restrictions

The following foods are not permitted at the center:

• Candy, chips, chocolate, gum, soda pop, or other sugary snacks
• Raw carrots, popcorn, and peanut butter or peanut products for toddlers
• Items like grapes, carrots, hot dogs must be cut into safe, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking hazards

Meal Supervision

In accordance with BC Child Care Licensing Regulation (Section 48):

• Children must not be fed using a propped bottle
• Children must not be forced to eat or drink
• Children must not be left unsupervised while eating
• Food and drink must not be used as a reward or punishment

Staff are expected to sit with the children during meals to encourage social interaction, model healthy eating, and support proper table manners.

Healthy Food Introduction

We aim to introduce new, healthy foods and support children's curiosity about nutrition. We do this by:

• Offering a healthy snack or lunch once a month (center-provided or for special occasions)
• Hosting a “Share Snack” once a month, where parents provide healthy food items such as fruits, vegetables, and grains
• Informing families in advance of the items being served and considering all allergies and dietary restrictions

Parent Support & Communication

• A copy of the Canada Food Guide is included in each child’s registration package and available upon request.
• If a child brings food considered not in line with healthy eating practices, staff will report to the supervisor and gently encourage alternatives by saying:

“If something else is available at home, please make this item your child’s last choice.”

• Teachers are expected to offer ideas, support, and resources to parents with concerns about portion sizes, variety, or food preferences.

Summer Note

During summer months, families must provide an additional water bottle for their child to ensure proper hydration throughout the day. Refer to the cleaning schedule for water bottle maintenance.

Sample Menu for Reference

Morning Snack (10:00 AM)

• 1 piece of fruit or yogurt
• Water

Lunch (11:00 am for IT and 12:00 pm for 3-5)

• Tuna salad wraps or egg salad sandwich (whole wheat)
• Fruit salad
• Cheese stick or cubes
• One piece of vegetable with dip
• Milk or water

Afternoon Snack (3:15 PM)

• Bran muffin or granola bar
• Fruit slices (apple, orange, banana, etc.)
• Water

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