Meals and Snacks

The APSU Child Learning Center acknowledges its role in providing a well balanced diet for our children as well as education on food and nutrition for children and families. Meals meeting USDA guidelines are available to all enrolled children without regard to race, color, national origin, handicap, sex, or age. Breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack are served daily.

The Center also has a role in providing an environment which supports the transmission of family culture and values.

When a parent requests a special diet for their child, the Center makes all reasonable efforts to comply. However, the Center reserves the right to request parents provide information from a Qualified Medical Practitioner or Dietician before the request will be carried out. Parents are NOT allowed to restrict their child's diet while they are at the center based on a child's dislikes or presumed allergies.

Staff shall ensure that the children are aware of the need for, and carry out hygiene practices before and after every meal and snack.

Staff act as role models during all meals by sitting with children at their tables and eating the same food.

Parents are invited to join their child(ren) at a meal time but must notify the classroom teacher at least one day in advance to be sure we have an adequate amount of food. We are, of course, required to serve the children first.

Children are not forced to eat. Positive encouragement is used.

Menus address the children's interests and individual needs, especially with respect to allergies, cultural and religious requirements. Menu design will ensure that USDA requirements are met.

The menu is displayed weekly in order to assist parents and families in their discussion with their children about their food experiences in the Center.

Birthdays and other Celebrations

Each teacher handles birthdays differently. If you plan to celebrate your child's birthday at the center, check with the classroom teacher to find out when would be the best time for the celebration and how many children will be involved.

If you would like to provide a "treat" on a special occasion, such as a birthday or holiday, we suggest contacting the classroom teacher before finalizing plans that might include your child’s classroom. . Some suggested healthy "treats" might include fresh fruit (small pieces), cheese and crackers or celery, peanut butter and crackers or celery, pudding in small paper cups (perhaps even frozen), fruit juice popsicles, small sandwiches, muffins, fresh vegetables, quick breads (cranberry, pumpkin, banana), peanut butter or oatmeal cookies. We also welcome treats native to other countries.

Please make sure you check with the classroom teacher to be sure no children have food allergies that could be aggravated by the snacks you bring.