Child Care

Ontario Dietitians in Public Health (ODPH) recognizes the essential roles that child care settings play in supporting children’s growth and development, health, and well-being.

A supportive nutrition environment is one that encourages and facilitates positive relationship with food. It provides a nurturing space where children have:

access to age-appropriate food at regular times
a safe and encouraging eating atmosphere
opportunities to explore and try new foods
the ability to listen to their hunger and fullness cues

Resources found here may be used and reproduced without permission for non-commercial purposes, provided that the appropriate credit is given to ODPH, the material remains in context and is not altered in any way. To change or adapt materials, please complete the Permission to Reproduce or Adapt Materials Form.

Child Care

Sample Policies for Child Care Settings

Modifying Recipes to Meet the Practical Guide

Increasing the Use of Plant-Based Proteins

Promoting Food Literacy in Child Care

Choosing Learning Resources: Nurturing Positive Relationships with Food through Play and Learning

Reducing Food Costs and Environmental Impacts Checklist

Celebrations

Fundraising

Ontario Child Care Settings Needs Assessment Report

Ontario Child Care Settings Needs Assessment Report Summary

Menu Revision Tool for Child Care Settings