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Child Nutrition Matters: Inside Our Healthy Menus 

 Proper child nutrition is one of the most important necessities for ensuring a child’s growth, development, and overall well-being. This is why at Valley Heights Preschool, we strongly emphasize on creating nutritious, balanced, and delicious meals to satisfy the cravings of these young bodies while instilling healthy eating habits in them for a lifetime. In this article, we will discuss our approach to meal planning, the importance of the Munch & Move program, and how parents can continue following these habits at home.  

Meal Planning   

We put a lot of thought in designing our menus, which are packed with wholesome foods essential for the nutritional requirements of growing children. Here are the elements we look to incorporate in our menus.  

• Fresh and Seasonal Produce: Vegetables and fruits are essential ingredients of every meal or snack. We focus heavily on using fresh and seasonal products to ensure the highest possible nutritional value, quality, and flavour.  
• Lean Proteins: We also include plenty of lean protein sources such as lentils, beans, eggs, and chicken to support the growth and repair of muscles.  
• Whole Grains: To help kids with sustained energy throughout the day, we look to provide meals that are rich in essential nutrients and fibre. This is why our meals often comprise oats, brown rice, and whole grain breads.  
• Dairy: We also provide dairy or dairy alternatives to our students in the form of milk, yogurt, and cheese. They are rich in vitamin D and calcium, both extremely essential for developing strong teeth and bones.  

The Munch & Move Program 

Valley Heights Preschool is a proud participant of the popular Munch & Move program. This is an excellent initiative by the Australian government to promote physical activities, healthy eating, and reduction of screen time amongst children. Our strong commitment to foster a holistic approach to child health has been complemented significantly by this program.  

Participation in Munch & Move has helped us integrate  

• Active Play: Our daily schedule includes several physical activities that help children develop motor skills and interest in following an active lifestyle. 
• Nutrition Education: Our children are also taught about food groups, recommended portion sizes, and balanced food choices.  
• Healthy Habits: We also instil healthy habits in children by encouraging behaviours such as consumption of more water and avoiding habits such as consumption of unhealthy treats.  

Healthy Eating at Home  

Please remember that should not stop at pre-school and it calls for a close collaboration between families and educators. Please follow these practical tips to provide the right nutrition to your child at home.  

• Balanced Meals: Aim for a wide range of food groups by providing a mix of whole grains, proteins, and loads of colourful vegetables and fruits. 
• Avoid Processed Foods: Whenever possible, opt for foods that are minimally processed. Instead of popular processed snacks, try out their homemade versions that are both healthier and more cost-efficient.  
• Involvement:  Foster a sense of ownership by involving your children in meal preparation. Let them assist you with simple tasks such as assembling sandwiches or stirring the soup.  
• Routine: To help your child recognise the cues of hunger and fullness, maintain a consistent routine for meal and snacks.  

At Valley Heights Preschool, we consider nutrition to be an essential element for developing happy and healthy children. Through programs such as Munch and Move, we work not only with our children, but also their parents to achieve this goal.