Nutrition at Curious Tots Childcare Centre
At Curious Tots, we understand that the early years are critical for developing lifelong healthy eating habits. Nutrition plays a fundamental role in supporting your child’s growth, cognitive development, and overall well-being. That’s why we’ve partnered with Wholesome Kids Catering, a leading provider specializing in nutritious, kid-friendly meals, to ensure that every meal at Curious Tots is both delicious and nourishing.
Our Commitment to Healthy Eating
Balanced and Diverse Meals
We provide a variety of meals that cater to all the essential food groups. Each meal is thoughtfully designed to include:
Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal produce packed with vitamins and minerals.
Whole Grains: Nutrient-rich grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread to fuel growing bodies.
Proteins: High-quality proteins such as lean meats, legumes, and dairy products to support muscle growth and brain development.
Healthy Fats: Sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil to aid in brain function and overall health.
Focus on Local and Sustainable Ingredients
In collaboration with Wholesome Kids Catering, we prioritize sourcing local, sustainable ingredients whenever possible. This not only supports local farmers and reduces our environmental impact but also ensures that the food on your child’s plate is as fresh and wholesome as possible.
Customizable Menus for Dietary Needs
We understand that every child is unique, and so are their dietary needs. Whether your child has food allergies, intolerances, or specific cultural or religious dietary requirements, we work closely with Wholesome Kids Catering to customize meals accordingly. Our team ensures that all dietary accommodations are met without compromising on nutrition or taste.
Low Sugar, No Artificial Additives
At Curious Tots, we are committed to promoting a clean diet. Our meals are free from added sugars, artificial preservatives, and any unnecessary additives. We focus on natural flavors and healthy ingredients to cultivate your child’s palate for wholesome foods.
What’s on the Menu?
Curious Tots offers a rotating menu that changes seasonally, ensuring variety and the freshest ingredients possible. Here are some examples of what your child might enjoy during the week:
Breakfast
Whole grain pancakes with maple syrup with a side of mixed berries and a glass of 2% milk.
Whole wheat bread with jam, cream cheese, and fresh fruit.
Lunch
Chicken meatballs with steamed rice and mixed steamed vegetable salad, along with 2% milk.
Whole grain pasta with homemade tomato sauce, grilled chicken, and roasted vegetables.
Afternoon Snack
Fresh fruit salad with a side of yogurt.
Whole grain pita with homemade guacamole and vegetable sticks.
Evening Snack (Coming Soon!)
Mini turkey and avocado wraps with a side of cherry tomatoes.
Rice cakes topped with almond butter and sliced bananas.
Nutrition Education at Curious Tots
Interactive Food Learning
Children engage in hands-on activities like planting a small garden, learning about where food comes from, and even participating in simple food preparation tasks. These activities help them understand the importance of healthy eating and how food fuels their bodies.
Healthy Eating Habits
Through stories, games, and discussions, we teach children about balanced meals, the benefits of different food groups, and the importance of hydration. We also encourage positive eating behaviours, such as trying new foods and enjoying mealtimes with peers.
Family Workshops and Events
We regularly host workshops and events where parents can learn more about nutrition, share their experiences, and get tips on preparing healthy meals at home. These events also provide a great opportunity for families to enjoy a meal together and reinforce healthy eating habits.
Partnering with Parents
Open Communication
We maintain open lines of communication with parents to ensure that we’re meeting your child’s nutritional needs. We welcome your feedback on our menus and are always ready to discuss any dietary concerns or preferences.
Parent Involvement
Parents are encouraged to share their favourite healthy recipes, which we might feature in our meal plans, and participate in our nutrition-related events. We believe that involving families in the process strengthens the community and reinforces the healthy habits we promote at Curious Tots.
Daily Meal Reports
To keep you informed, we provide daily updates on what your child ate, how much they enjoyed their meals, and any new foods they tried. This helps you stay connected to your child’s nutritional journey and celebrate their progress.