Other

Healthy Eating: More investment needed in young children'snutrition

1 min read
Most children in childcare are chomping on fruit and vegetables instead of unhealthy snacks, Ofsted reported last week. But experts say there's still a need for more government investment in early years nutrition.

Ofsted's report found that most nurseries and childminders offeredhealthy food with only a handful failing to feed children well. Theeducation watchdog surveyed 110 childcare services for its report. Threequarters of childminders and 65 per cent of nurseries were judged goodor outstanding in providing a healthy diet. A smaller poll of parentsfound most were happy with the food their children were getting.

Most providers had an emphasis on home cooked and fresh food and knewabout balanced diets. But some still offered sweets, crisps andbiscuits.

Six providers offered children sweets or unhealthy treats as a rewardfor trying fruit and vegetables. This gave children mixed messages, saidOfsted. The best providers helped children understand the value of food,encouraged them to try new things and worked with parents.

Register Now to Continue Reading

Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's Included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here


More like this

Hertfordshire Youth Workers

“Opportunities in districts teams and countywide”

CEO

Bath, Somerset