First Friends Day Nursery Chineham puts nutrition at heart

First Friends Day Nurseries, which has a setting in Hanmore Road, Chineham, is delivering a food programme designed to support healthy habits for life.

The Thoughtful Food Programme is central to the nursery’s approach, and is built around sustainability, independence and a lifelong positive relationship with food.

Children took part in hands-on activities. (Image: First Friends Day Nurseries) Shanice Butt, quality and curriculum manager at First Friends, said: "Every ingredient, every mealtime routine is chosen with purpose — whether that’s helping children learn to serve themselves, try something new, or understand where their food comes from."

Children recently took part in hands-on activities including making soup, creating frozen fruit snacks and designing food collages.

The activities encouraged children to explore new foods, talk about meals they enjoy at home and learn about making healthy choices.

The nursery’s menus are low in added sugar, focus on seasonal produce and include at least one meat-free day a week.

Food waste is also reduced through compost bins and using leftover ingredients in creative ways.

Shanice said: "Mealtimes are one of our most valuable learning moments.

"From scooping their own vegetables to talking about what’s on their plate, our children are growing into curious, independent and health-aware young people."