At Ladels Day Nursery, we believe that mealtimes should be happy, social occasions for both children and staff. We promote shared, enjoyable, and positive interactions during these times, supporting children’s development and wellbeing.

We are committed to providing children with healthy, nutritious, and balanced meals and snacks that meet individual dietary needs, following the Department for Education’s nutrition guidance. This policy should be read in conjunction with our Allergies and Allergic Reactions Policy.

Our Approach to Food and Healthy Eating

  • A balanced and healthy breakfast, midday meal, tea, and two snacks are provided for children attending a full day.
  • Menus are planned in advance using the Department for Education’s example menus and guidance. These are rotated regularly, reflect cultural diversity and seasonal ingredients, and are displayed for parents and children to view. Parents and children are invited to contribute to menu planning.
  • Menus include at least 5 servings of fresh fruit and vegetables per day.
  • All meals and snacks are nutritious and avoid high levels of fat, sugar, salt, and artificial additives.
  • Portion sizes are age-appropriate and in line with recommended guidance for babies and young children.

Sustainability

  • We purchase staple long-life ingredients in bulk, use frozen or tinned fruit and vegetables where appropriate, and make homemade sauces from fresh ingredients.
  • We use seasonal fruits and vegetables, a variety of proteins, and reduce food waste by using leftovers where safely possible.
  • We grow and use our own herbs in meals prepared on-site.

Mealtime Environment

  • No child is ever left unattended while eating or drinking to reduce the risk of choking. A paediatric first aider is present at all times during meals and snacks.
  • Staff sit and eat with the children, modelling positive eating behaviours and encouraging good table manners.
  • Mealtimes are social and relaxed. Children are encouraged to make choices, serve themselves, and feed themselves to build independence.
  • Children are never forced to eat. If a meal is not enjoyed, it is removed without fuss. A second course will still be offered, even if the first is not eaten.
  • Children who refuse to eat are offered food again later.
  • Children are allowed to eat at their own pace without being rushed.

Drinks

  • Only milk and water are provided to promote oral health.
  • Fresh drinking water is always accessible and is frequently offered, especially in hot weather.
  • Babies and young children’s water intake is monitored to ensure adequate hydration.

Baby Feeding and Weaning

  • We follow individual baby feeding routines, agreed with parents and reviewed regularly.
  • We support breastfeeding and offer a private, comfortable space for mothers to breastfeed or provide expressed milk.
  • Formula milk is prepared following NHS guidelines.
  • Weaning is introduced collaboratively with parents. We do not make assumptions based on age but follow the child’s readiness and developmental stage.
  • Daily written feeding records are provided for children under two.

Commercial Baby Food and Drink

  • We provide fresh food for babies and do not use commercial baby food or drinks.
  • We do not permit parents to bring in pre-made baby food or drinks.

Managing Food Allergies and Dietary Needs

  • Allergen information is displayed with each menu.
  • Before a child starts, we gather information on dietary requirements, preferences, allergies, and health needs. This is shared with all relevant staff.
  • Where necessary, we carry out risk assessments and create individual allergy/dietary plans, which are reviewed regularly.
  • Seating plans are carefully considered to minimise the risk of cross-contamination.
  • A nominated practitioner checks that each child’s food meets their dietary needs before each meal or snack.
  • Children are supported in understanding food safety (age-appropriately), including the risks of sharing food with others.
  • Staff approach allergies and special diets sensitively, without drawing negative attention to children.

Cultural and Religious Dietary Preferences

  • We provide meals that reflect children’s cultural backgrounds and introduce a variety of world foods.
  • Cultural differences in eating habits are respected and catered for.

Learning About Food and Healthy Choices

  • Staff teach children to make healthy choices through role-modelling, play, cooking, and gardening activities.
  • Children are engaged in conversations about healthy eating and the benefits of different foods.

Celebrations and Special Occasions

  • On special occasions, children may have small treats such as cake or biscuits, served during mealtimes to avoid spoiling their appetite or harming oral health.
  • We do allow parents to bring in cakes on special occasions, provided they meet health and safety standards and include clear ingredient labels in line with FIR 2014.
  • We offer non-food celebration alternatives such as stickers, bubbles, fruit platters, favourite stories, party games, or dancing.

Food Safety and Hygiene

  • We do allow packed lunches. Parents are supported with guidance on healthy content based on NHS lunchbox advice:https://www.nhs.uk/healthier-families/recipes/healthier-lunchboxes
  • We share choking hazard guidance from the Food Standards Agency to help parents pack safe food.
  • Packed lunches must be stored with ice packs fridge space is not provided.
  • We do not provide a reheating service for packed lunches.
  • All lunchboxes are checked before serving to ensure safety and manage allergen and choking risks.

Food Brought from Home

  • All staff handling food are trained in food hygiene, with training updated every three years.
  • Staff follow Food Standards Agency choking hazard guidance and prepare food safely for all age groups.
  • Staff are trained to recognise allergic reactions, understand the difference between allergies and intolerances, and remain vigilant for developing symptoms.
  • In the rare event of a food poisoning outbreak affecting two or more children, Ofsted and relevant health agencies will be informed within 14 days, and all guidance will be followed.

This policy has been developed in partnership with parents, staff, and children, and is reviewed regularly to reflect current guidance, best practice, and the needs of the nursery community.

Discover a Nurturing Start for Your Child at Ladel’s Day Nursery!

Give your little one the best foundation for growth and learning in a safe, inclusive, and creative environment. At Ladel’s Day Nursery, we nurture children aged 3 months to 5 years with tailored care and engaging activities.
CONTACT US