We work with Startwell– a programme that helps us promote a more healthier environment. Our setting startwell lead, works together with other staff, parents and startwell to make changes whether it is through diet or exercise. Healthy snacks are provided daily such as fruits and drinks such as milk and water and parents are made aware of what is good to put in childrens pack lunches and what not. Staff encourage pre-schoolers to chop their own fruit and veggies to promote independence and healthy eating. children are supervised and supported throughout. Different physical activities are available in each room and which are suitable for them for example babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. this will promote physical development. Below are some of the characters we follow to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Children learn from adults and practitioners so it is vital that we are implementing healthy lifestyle ourselves so children learn and copy.
180 minutes of physical activity is needed for children to lead a healthy lifestyle. We set different fun activities such as obstacles or big blocks to allow children to get fit.
Children need “me size meal” so they’re not eating too much or too less which will impact on their weight.
Eating a variety of 5 portions of fruits and vegetables a day to reduce chances of illness later in life
Skills based play and staying physically fit allows children to build on their fundamental movement skills. Physical movement and activity plays a role in creating nerve connections to the brain
Under 5’s should not be restrained or kept inactive for more than one hour at a time except from when they’re sleeping. Thiscan cause obesity and does not increase cognitive development.
2 snacks max is about getting children into the habit of consuming a healthy mid morning and a mid-afternoon snack. It also gets them in to a good routine and by regularly offering 2 healthy snacks a day in between 3 healthy ‘me size meals’ will help to ensure that children have enough energy to keep them going throughout the day.