In September, the government introduced new mandatory guidance for eating in Early Years settings, designed to give children the healthiest possible start. These updated standards require nurseries to provide balanced, nutritious meals, limit sugar, saturated fats and ultra-processed foods, and promote water and milk as the only drinks offered throughout the day. The guidance also aligns with School Food Standards, encouraging sustainability, plant-based options, and supporting parents through shared learning about healthy food choices.
At our nursery we fully welcome these changes and see them as a positive step towards lifelong healthy habits.
Our New Curriculum Focus: Healthy Eating
Inspired by this guidance, our current curriculum topic is Healthy Eating. We’ll be exploring food in a way that is fun, hands-on and developmentally appropriate, helping our children build a positive relationship with what they eat.
Throughout the month, children will enjoy a variety of engaging activities, such as:
- Exploring different fruits and vegetables through play and sensory activities
- Talking about where food comes from
- Practising simple food preparation skills
- Learning about how food helps our bodies grow strong and healthy
Our focus is not about restriction, but about positivity, balance and curiosity. We want children to feel confident and excited about trying new foods, while understanding that all foods have a place within a healthy lifestyle.
We look forward to sharing photos, learning moments and tips with families as the topic unfolds, and to working together to support healthy habits both at nursery and at home.
If you have any questions about our meals, menus or curriculum, please don’t hesitate to speak to a member of the team.