Health & Nutrition – A healthy child is a happy child

Health & Nutrition – A healthy child is a happy child

At Teeny Days Nursery, the physical well being of our children is extremely important.  We promote healthy eating and encourage as much physical activity as possible within and outside of the setting in order to facilitate this.

One such way is through mealtimes, which are encouraged to be relaxed and sociable. Children bring in their own lunches and we support parents in bringing healthy and balanced meals.  Furthermore children are provided with healthy snacks, milk and water throughout the day.

Formula milk and weaning foods are also provided to your requirements, policies are available upon request.

We are pleased to be accredited by Family Food First and we pride ourselves in maintaining outstanding safe and hygienic food standards.  The Family Food First programme runs in nurseries, pre-schools and children’s centres in Luton who aim to encourage best practice, and the promotion of good nutrition, oral health and physical activity.

You can find out more about the Family Food First programme by visiting their website: https://www.cambscommunityservices.nhs.uk/Bedfordshire/nutrition/family-food-first

They have a lovely recipe book full of healthy recipes if you are stuck for new ideas: https://www.cambscommunityservices.nhs.uk/docs/default-source/beds—family-food-first/autumn-recipe-book-(2).pdf?sfvrsn=2

Here are also ten key ways to stay healthy as a family:

https://www.cambscommunityservices.nhs.uk/docs/default-source/beds—family-food-first/10-key-messages.pdf

This month we have sent our children home with goody bags of fruit and a message to families to replace a sugary or unhealthy snack with a piece of fruit and to encourage more fruit consumption as part of a healthier diet.

We have also started a lending library, sending books home with our children and asking parents and families to spend time reading books together to encourage family time and reduce screen time as part of a healthier lifestyle.

We are also proud to be part of the Healthy Smiles Programme, where children engage in tooth brushing activities and learn about dental hygiene practices daily.  This is accredited by the Community Dental Services. You can find out more information about the Healthy Smiles programme and oral health at: https://communitydentalservices.co.uk/oral-health/luton-oral-health-improvement/healthy-smiles/

It is recommended to register your child with a dentist as early as the appearance of their first tooth.  If you are looking for a dentist, have a look at the document below, which has a list of highly recommended dentists in our locality.  The document also includes 12 top tips for looking after your little ones teeth, so please do have a read.  If you would like any further information, please speak to a member of staff.