CYP Now - In Practice: Know how

With childhood obesity rates increasing and concern that many children are not eating a balanced diet, children's centres and extended schools need to think carefully about their role in promoting healthy eating.

This is not just about providing healthy snacks and meals. Centres andschools can also have a powerful influence on children's attitude tofood and can work with parents and carers to improve their knowledge andunderstanding of nutrition and diet.

1. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It's vital thatchildren get off to a good start so look for good sources of fibre andavoid high sugar and salty foods. Good quality cereal, wholemeal toast,fruit and natural yoghurt are all good options.

2. When it comes to snacks, swap fizzy drinks and crisps for freshfruit.

Younger children may find some fruit like oranges too messy so tryproviding bowls of fruit like melon and pineapple cut into chunks thatare easy to grab. Vary the type of fruit you provide so children get totry lots of different kinds.

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