Provide parents with specific information regarding ingredients included in menu items and how the item is prepared. Provide a copy of the six week rotation menu to parents and inform them of any substitutions as they occur. If parents are informed through a posted menu, ensure that it is current and dated. Encourage the social aspects of eating, eg. Centre operators can recognize the value of staff eating the same meals as the children with the children as a program learning experience and consider the staff meal costs as they would other program materials such as paint.
Portion size is a consideration.
Small group size for meals encourages children to serve themselves, limits the waiting time, and promotes positive interactions. Providing a video of snack and lunch, as with other program activities can give parents a sense of what actually goes on when their children attend your centre. Children who are picked up later in the day may need another little snack to get them through the time while supper is being prepared or during the long ride home. Talk with parents to determine what they feel is best for their children. Some want a snack provided while others are concerned that their child is eating too much.