5.1.10 Nutrition, Diet and Mealtimes

1. Ask and take account of what parents, previous carers and children say about foods they like and dislike; and any allergies or other health care needs which may impact on their diet;
2. Find out about special requirements; for example, food needing to be cut up, special dishes, cutlery or assistance the children may require;
3. Ensure that any dietary requirements that arise from a child's background or heritage are taken account of. Carers and staff who are unsure about how to do this should seek advice and guidance about how to proceed;
4. Provide nutritious, balanced and varied food;
5. Cater for culture, age, medical needs and choice;
6. Cater for individual needs;
7. Involve children, as far as possible, in menu planning, choice and purchase of food;
8. Ensure adequate and appropriate drinks are available at all times;
9. Present food in attractive and appetising ways.

At meal times:

1. Staff/carers should sit with children, not at separate tables;
2. Provide enough time for children to eat their meal comfortably;
3. Serve slow eaters first to allow them more time;
4. Make meal time a relaxed, social event when the day can be talked about;
5. Promote independence with sensitive one-to-one help where necessary;
6. Consider children who may require some privacy or may need to be separated while eating.