The early years are a critical window for establishing healthy eating habits. Children who experience a wide variety of nutritious foods in a positive, social environment are more likely to become adventurous, healthy eaters throughout their lives. At Jenny's ELC, mealtimes are not just about nutrition — they're about connection, language, and learning.
Our approach to food
Our menus are developed in consultation with a qualified nutritionist and meet the Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents in Australia. We provide breakfast, morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea — all freshly prepared on-site. We cater for all dietary requirements, allergies, and cultural preferences.
- Fresh fruit and vegetables served daily
- Whole grains and legumes featured regularly
- No added sugar in meals or snacks
- Water available at all times
- Menus rotate seasonally to introduce variety
Mealtimes as learning experiences
We eat together at small tables, family-style. Children serve themselves where developmentally appropriate, building fine motor skills, independence, and a sense of agency around food. Educators sit with children and model positive eating behaviours — trying new foods, talking about where food comes from, and making mealtimes a genuinely social experience.
Research shows that children are more likely to try new foods when they see trusted adults and peers eating them. This is one reason why eating together — rather than serving children separately — makes such a difference.
Extending it at home
- Ask your child about what they ate at the centre — it opens conversation and reinforces positive associations
- Serve the same foods at home that they enjoy at the centre
- Involve children in food preparation — even toddlers can wash vegetables or tear lettuce
- Avoid using food as a reward or punishment
- Offer new foods alongside familiar favourites, without pressure to eat them