Nutrition
At Natural Steps Preschool, we are committed to promoting healthy eating habits and sustainability. Our no package food policy and efforts to be as zero waste as possible are central to our nutrition philosophy.
Our Approach:
No Package Food Policy: To minimise waste, we ask that all foods brought to the preschool are free from packaging. This helps us reduce our environmental footprint and teaches children the importance of sustainability. Zero Waste: We strive to be as zero waste as possible by encouraging reusable containers and composting food scraps. Children learn about the impact of waste on the environment and the benefits of reducing, reusing, and recycling. Morning Tea: Children bring a paper or fabric bag for their morning tea. This eco-friendly approach reduces single-use plastics and encourages the use of sustainable materials. Lunch Time: For lunchtime, children use bento-style lunch boxes. These compartmentalized containers make it easy to pack a variety of healthy foods while eliminating the need for disposable packaging. Staff Role Models: Our staff model healthy eating habits, showing children the importance of nutritious food choices. By leading by example, we help instill lifelong healthy eating practices in our students.
Healthy Lunch Ideas
Here are some nutritious and eco-friendly lunch ideas to inspire you:
1. Veggie Wraps: Whole grain tortillas filled with hummus, lettuce, shredded carrots, and cucumber slices.2. Fruit Kabobs: Skewers of fresh fruit pieces like grapes, strawberries, and melon.3. Cheese and Crackers: A selection of whole grain crackers paired with cheese slices and cherry tomatoes.4. Mini Sandwiches: Small sandwiches made with whole grain bread, turkey, and avocado.5. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and fresh berries in a reusable container.6. Veggie Sticks and Dip: Carrot, celery, and bell pepper sticks with a side of hummus or ranch dip.7. Rice Cakes with Toppings: Rice cakes topped with peanut butter, banana slices, and a sprinkle of chia seeds.8. Fruit Salad: A simple and healthy addition to any lunch box.
We believe that fostering healthy eating habits and environmental consciousness starts early. By implementing these practices, we aim to create a positive impact on both our children and the planet.
No Package Food Policy: To minimise waste, we ask that all foods brought to the preschool are free from packaging. This helps us reduce our environmental footprint and teaches children the importance of sustainability. Zero Waste: We strive to be as zero waste as possible by encouraging reusable containers and composting food scraps. Children learn about the impact of waste on the environment and the benefits of reducing, reusing, and recycling. Morning Tea: Children bring a paper or fabric bag for their morning tea. This eco-friendly approach reduces single-use plastics and encourages the use of sustainable materials. Lunch Time: For lunchtime, children use bento-style lunch boxes. These compartmentalized containers make it easy to pack a variety of healthy foods while eliminating the need for disposable packaging. Staff Role Models: Our staff model healthy eating habits, showing children the importance of nutritious food choices. By leading by example, we help instill lifelong healthy eating practices in our students.
Healthy Lunch Ideas
Here are some nutritious and eco-friendly lunch ideas to inspire you:
1. Veggie Wraps: Whole grain tortillas filled with hummus, lettuce, shredded carrots, and cucumber slices.2. Fruit Kabobs: Skewers of fresh fruit pieces like grapes, strawberries, and melon.3. Cheese and Crackers: A selection of whole grain crackers paired with cheese slices and cherry tomatoes.4. Mini Sandwiches: Small sandwiches made with whole grain bread, turkey, and avocado.5. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and fresh berries in a reusable container.6. Veggie Sticks and Dip: Carrot, celery, and bell pepper sticks with a side of hummus or ranch dip.7. Rice Cakes with Toppings: Rice cakes topped with peanut butter, banana slices, and a sprinkle of chia seeds.8. Fruit Salad: A simple and healthy addition to any lunch box.
We believe that fostering healthy eating habits and environmental consciousness starts early. By implementing these practices, we aim to create a positive impact on both our children and the planet.