NUTRITION AT HEAD START
Good nutrition is the cornerstone of a child's health.
Our Head Start Program meets the nutritional needs of your child by serving meals that offer a variety of foods and providing nutrition activities that broaden their experiences. The support of a Registered Dietitian, Nutrition Specialist and classroom nutrition activities help your child develop good eating habits, offer nutritious food choices and promote healthy development.
Meals served at the centers meet the requirements of the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). All children, parents, staff and volunteers eat together. Children are encouraged to try new foods and serve themselves by assisting with set up, meal service and clean up. Adults set a good example by eating and drinking the same foods offered to the children. Center meals served are breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks. Food safety and sanitation measures protect the health and safety of everyone.
Nutrition Facts
- FOOD IS NEVER USED AS A PUNISHMENT OR REWARD. Each child is encouraged, but not forced to eat or taste foods served. Everyone is served portion sizes based on USDA recommendation for 3-5 year olds, including adults, unless they have a special diet or food allergy. Also, no rewards are given for those "cleaning their plate."
- Good oral health is promoted in our program by offering dairy products, water, a wide variety of fruit and vegetables, and using sugary foods in moderation. Brushing teeth after breakfast and lunch in the classroom is another way our Head Start promotes the prevention of tooth decay.
- Children with special diets and food allergies must have a statement from the doctor or other medical authority that document that exact special diet, the dates the diet will be in effect, the medical authority's signature and the date it was signed. Please update us if your child's diet or allergies change.
- If a child has a special need or disability, the menu and/or feeding utensils will be modified to meet the child's needs.
- Age appropriate food activities in the classroom encourages positive attitudes toward healthy goods. Children also learn good eating habits and mealtime behavior when they observe adult behavior at meals.
Nutrition Information for Families is Available to Assist With:
- Selecting and preparation of foods and menus
- Budgeting for meals
- Child Nutrition and eating patterns
- Balancing good nutrition and physical activity
- Good oral health and prevention of tooth decay
