Our nutritional health program is designed to help pave the way for a lifetime of healthy habits. By encouraging balanced nutrition practices and physical activity in early childhood, we are helping children reach their full potential and preventing chronic diseases later in life. We have joined the Partnership for a Healthier America, and are combining forces with leaders in other industries in a commitment to achieve the Lets Move! Child Care standards. The program includes the following goals to help build a generation of healthy children:
Physical Activity: 1-2 hours of every day, including outside play when possible.
Television Time: At school, no more than 30 minutes weekly. At home, aim for no more than 1-2 hours/day of quality television time. (None for kids under 2.)
Food: Serve fruits or vegetables during at least 2 eating occasions per day. Meals served family style. Avoid serving fried foods.
Beverages: Water, whenever. No sugar-sweetened drinks. For ages 2+: low- or non-fat milk. Serve 4-6 ounces max of 100% juice a day.
Infant Feeding: We support parents decisions about infant feeding. Breastfeeding moms can provide their milk to their infants and are welcome to breastfeed during school time.
The focus on healthy lifestyles comes as the U.S. is experiencing an increase in health risks directly tied to poor food choices and physical inactivity. Studies show that one in five children is overweight or obese by age six. We are concerned about these trends and have joined Let’s Move! Child Care and other related efforts across the nation in the fight to prevent childhood obesity. We provide a variety of healthy food choices during meals and snacks and encourage children to try new foods. You’re welcome to sample them for yourself!
