Nutrition
As educators and parents ourselves, we understand that children need the right combination of foods to help them develop mentally and physically. Our experienced Nutrition Coordinators create menus that are delicious, colourful and nutritious. We use interactive kitchen windows, herb gardens and food exploration opportunities to regularly teach children about the ‘super powers’ of different fruits and vegetables as well as encouraging them to try something new. Our beautiful gardens include vegetable patches that allow children to watch their food grow and foster conversations about nutrition. Together with our passionate Educators the children collect fresh ingredients for their meals or in play.
At Happy Days Early Learning, mealtimes are regarded as important rituals rather than set routines. Children are supported to set the tables and enjoy conversations with their peers and Educators. Authentic eating utensils and real crockery allow children to develop their independence and physical skills while enjoying the social aspect of meal times. Older children participate fully in the mealtime ritual by self-serving their meals and scraping and rinsing their bowls when they have had enough to eat.
We provide a delicious 4-week rotating menu, carefully developed in partnership with our chef to meet children’s daily nutritional requirements. Meals include favourites such as Lemon Myrtle Tuna Pasta, Roast Chicken Dinner and Bush Tucker Curry. Children also enjoy a range of different snacks such as homemade muffins and superfood platters.
Freshly Prepared Meals by Kirstin
At Happy Days, mealtimes are an important part of our day, providing children with the nourishment they need to learn, grow and thrive. Our menus are thoughtfully designed by Carla, incorporating fresh, seasonal ingredients and opportunities for children to experience a variety of flavours, including native and Indigenous herbs and ingredients that help foster connections to Australia's rich culture and environment.
These nutritious meals are lovingly prepared onsite by Kirstin, whose delicious cooking is a favourite among the children. From hearty lunches to healthy snacks, Kirstin brings Carla's carefully planned menus to life, creating balanced meals that support children's health, wellbeing and enjoyment of food. Children are always excited to see what's on the menu, with mealtimes often becoming a highlight of their day.
Dining Together
At Happy Days, mealtimes are much more than just eating. Our children enjoy gathering together in our dedicated dining space, creating a calm and welcoming environment where they can connect with their peers and educators. Sitting together encourages communication, independence, social skills and a sense of community as children share conversations, practise table manners and enjoy unhurried mealtimes together. These experiences help foster positive relationships with food while creating a warm family-style atmosphere throughout the centre.