All the activity during the day makes children hungry. Mealtimes at daycare are unhurried moments and always the responsibility of the staff. Adults sit at the table with the children, participating in the meal and engaging in shared conversation. Being present allows the adults to observe the situation and support the children in eating enough and enjoying a varied diet.
For the youngest children, an adult serves the food; older children serve themselves. When portioning, children are asked how much food is the right amount for them. Adults always guide the process and ensure that bread and drinks are also included in the meal.
If needed, staff may use “tasting cards” to encourage children who are reluctant to eat or try new foods. For example, the child and adult might agree that the child picks three tasting cards—each time the child tastes the food, they get to turn over a card and see the picture on the other side.
Mealtimes at the daycare are scheduled to provide adequate nutrition throughout the day. However, especially during longer care days, children might get hungry again in the afternoon. We recommend that parents bring a healthy snack for the journey home, especially if the next mealtime is far off or the child is prone to getting “hangry.”