Awareness of healthy food can encourage children to be interested in nutrition. Children might ask questions about vitamins and minerals and which foods are nutritious. They may feel pride when they recognise and eat healthy foods.
The National Quality Standard (NQS) requires early childhood education services to promote healthy eating that is appropriate for each child (2.1.3). The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) asks children to take increasing responsibility for their own health and physical wellbeing (3.2).
Learning experiences
Make smoothies
Smoothies are simple to make and delicious to drink. The ingredients belong to a variety of food groups. There will be endless opportunities to discuss healthy eating and the importance of hydration. Add milk, yoghurt, bananas, berries and chia seeds.
Play with the senses
Children are more willing to try foods they have had regular exposure to.
- Let babies hold healthy foods in their hands as a sensory experience.
- Support older children to grow nutritious vegetables and herbs in their garden. Encourage them to touch, smell and taste their produce.
- Choose hands-on cooking experiences so they double as sensory experiences.
Eat a rainbow every day
Arrange colourful fruits, vegetables and other foods into the shape of a rainbow. Discuss how and why eating a rainbow of foods every day is healthy for us. Our bodies need a variety of vitamins and minerals to work and “eating a rainbow” ensures we get them all.
Listen to I ate a rainbow by Teenie Tiny Stevies. It's easy to sing along!
Resources
Websites
Australian Government: Australian Dietary Guidelines
Videos
Nutrition Australia: Promoting healthy eating in childcare