Food and Nutrition Policy
The Centre provides a nutritionally balanced menu that incorporates all of the 5 major food groups. All menus are developed using the Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents in Australia produced by the NHMRC. The Centre in conjunction with the educators, cook, Management Committee and other interested parents, plan a 4 week rotating menu, taking into consideration seasonal variations in the availability of food items. The menu is displayed in the Centre foyer.
The amount of food needed each day varies with the age, size and activity level of the child. Children are encouraged to try new foods regularly, including different colours, textures, flavours and aromas. Food is not used as a reward, incentive or for comfort.
Water is available for children to consume at all times during indoor and outdoor activities. Cooled boiled water is made available to children less than 12 months. No drink other than water is to be brought into the Centre.
The Centre provides:
- breakfast for children before 8am
- morning tea
- lunch
- afternoon tea
- late afternoon snack
Nutrition policies and menus:
- Refer to the Derby Street Policy document 2018 for the centre’s nutrition policy
- Menu 2018
Daily Nutrition
We will always ensure that children are provided with at least fifty per cent of the recommended daily intake which is equal to:
| Food Group | Minimum number of serves | Equivalent amount of food |
|---|---|---|
| Milk and milk alternatives | 3 | 300 mls |
| Bread and cereals | 2 | 60 grams |
| Fruit | 1 | 150 grams |
| Vegetables | 1 | 75 grams |
| Meat and meat alternatives | 1 | 45 grams |
| Fats and oils | 1.5 | 7 grams |
