Section 3: Nutrition in Child Care

3.1 Importance of Nutrition

Overview: Proper nutrition is essential for young children’s growth, brain development, immune function, and lifelong healthy habits. During early childhood, rapid physical and cognitive development occurs, making nutrient-rich foods crucial for optimal health outcomes (Canada Food Guide, 2024).

Visual: Pie Chart of Food Group Proportions (Description for visual)

• Vegetables & Fruits: 50%
• Whole Grain Foods: 25%
• Protein Foods: 25% Source: Canada Food Guide Plate Model

3.2 Nutrition Subsections

Infants (0–12 months)

• Breast milk or formula is the primary source of nutrition.
• At about 6 months, introduce iron-rich solid foods (e.g., pureed meats, lentils) while continuing breast milk/formula.
• Offer a variety of textures and flavors as infants grow.
• Avoid added sugars and salt (Canada Food Guide, 2024).

Toddlers (1–3 years)

• Serve small, frequent meals and snacks from all food groups.
• Encourage self-feeding and exploration of new foods.
• Include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and protein foods at each meal.
• Limit juice and sugary drinks; offer water instead.

Preschool (3–5 years)

• Continue offering a variety of foods from all food groups.
• Involve children in meal preparation to foster interest in healthy eating.
• Maintain regular meal and snack times.
• Focus on colorful plates with different textures and flavors.

School-age (6–12 years)

• Support independence by allowing children to help plan and prepare meals.
• Reinforce balanced meals: half plate vegetables/fruits, one-quarter whole grains, one-quarter protein.
• Encourage healthy snacks (e.g., yogurt, fruit, whole grain crackers).
• Promote hydration with water throughout the day.

3.3 Canada Food Guide & Active Living

The Canada Food Guide emphasizes both healthy eating and active living as foundations for child well-being. It recommends:

• Eating a variety of healthy foods each day, focusing on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and protein foods.
• Being mindful of eating habits, enjoying meals together, and involving children in food choices.
• Encouraging daily movement and limiting sedentary activities.

Link to Childcare Routines:

• Movement Breaks: Incorporate short, fun physical activities between lessons or playtimes (e.g., dancing, stretching), supporting the guide’s recommendation for active living.
• Mealtime Balance: Plan menus that reflect the plate model—half vegetables/fruits, one-quarter whole grains, one-quarter protein—ensuring every meal is balanced and nutritious (Canada Food Guide, 2024).

3.4 Creative Menu/Recipe Offering

Sample Lunch Menu for Preschool Children

Rainbow Veggie Wraps with Hummus & Fruit Salad

Ingredients:

• Whole wheat tortilla (whole grain)
• Hummus (protein, vegetarian)
• Shredded carrots, spinach, red bell pepper, cucumber (vegetables)
• Sliced strawberries, blueberries, apple chunks (fruit salad)
• Water or milk to drink

Instructions:

1. Spread hummus evenly over the tortilla.
2. Layer with shredded carrots, spinach, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
3. Roll up and slice into pinwheels.
4. Serve with a side of fresh fruit salad.
5. Offer water or milk as a beverage.

Vegetarian Option: This menu is already vegetarian, using hummus (chickpeas) as the protein source instead of meat.

Colorful Recipe Card Visual: (You can create a simple recipe card using Canva or Word, featuring images of the wrap and fruit salad, or draw/color a plate divided into food groups.)

Elements Linked to Menus, Feeding Routines, or Planning

1. Menu Planning:
   • Ensure each lunch includes all food groups as per the Canada Food Guide plate model.
   • Rotate protein sources (beans, tofu, eggs, dairy) for variety and nutritional balance (Canada Food Guide, 2024).
2. Feeding Routines:
   • Establish consistent mealtimes and snack routines to support healthy eating habits.
   • Encourage children to serve themselves (family-style dining) to promote autonomy and positive attitudes toward food (Canada Food Guide, 2024).