Promoting Nutrition and Healthy Eating Habits
Establishing positive eating habits supports your child’s growth and development at home and school. Offering a variety of nutritious foods gives your child the nutrients and energy they need to learn, grow and play.
Meal and Snack Tips:
- Be a positive role model. Prepare andÌýeat a variety of foods with your child.
- Enjoy meals and snacks together.
- Power-off devices at mealtime andÌýuse the time to connect as a family.
- Offer vegetables and fruit at everyÌýmeal and snack.
- Involve your child in meal and snackÌýpreparations.
- Make time for healthy eating so no one is feeling rushed.Ìý Ìý
Check out Canada’s Food Guide forÌýideas:Ìý
Try It Out!
Enjoy communityÌýmeals where:
- Food is put intoÌýlarger bowls orÌýserving dishes on the table.
- Everyone serves themselves basedÌýon 1) hunger cues, and 2) foodÌýpreferences
This style of meal allows everyone to be involved, see everything that has been prepared, and select what and how much they want.
Have a nutrition question?
Contact a registered dietitian for freeÌýat Health 811. Dial 811 or visit:ÌýÌýto start an online chat.
Packing Snacks and Meals for School
Helpful Tips:
- Label your child’s lunch bag, containers,Ìýand reusable water bottle.
- Make snacks and lunches together withÌýyour child.
- Use ice packs and insulated lunch bagsÌýto keep refrigerated foods cold.
- Wash all vegetables and fruit thoroughlyÌýwith clean water prior to eating.
- Many schools offer free nutrition programs that help children perform their best. Find out if your school has a program and how you can get involved.
Go on a Picnic!
- Picnics at home or in a local park can be a great way for children to practice using their lunch bag and containers independently. It also supports their independence while reinforcing theÌý development of fine motor skills.
Looking for snack and lunch Ideas?
Check outÌýand theÌý video from Peterborough Public Health.
Contact Us
»ÆÉ«Ö±²¥ District School Board
1994 Fisher Drive
Peterborough, ON K9J 6X6
Phone: 705-742-9773
Toll Free: 1-877-741-4577
Fax: 705-742-7801
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