The nursery stage is one of the most important stages in a child's life, as it is where they begin to form their eating and behavioral habits. Therefore, proper nutrition is important for children at this stage.
Providing meals to children at nursery not only provides them with the energy to grow and play, but also directly affects their concentration, cognitive achievement, and strengthening their immune system.
Therefore, choosing healthy meals for children at nursery is a shared responsibility between the family and the nursery to ensure a balanced nutritional environment that contributes to building a physically and mentally healthy child.
The Ideal Breakfast for a Child Before Going to Nursery
Breakfast is the most important meal of a child's day, as it provides them with the energy to concentrate and participate in nursery activities. It is preferable to include:
- Carbohydrates: such as oatmeal or whole-grain toast.
- Fruits and vegetables: such as cucumber, apple, banana, or carrot.
- Protein: such as a boiled egg, low-fat cheese, or yogurt.
- Healthy drink: such as a cup of milk or unsweetened natural juice.
What are the appropriate snacks for children at nursery
Snacks are a healthy meal for children at nursery and are considered important and essential because they provide energy and help them concentrate. They should be light on the stomach.
They may contain fresh fruit or vegetable pieces, unsalted nuts, low-fat fruit yogurt, and oat biscuits without added sugars.
A Balanced and Healthy Lunch for Children at Nursery
Lunch should be a complete meal to help children regain energy after playing and learning. It should contain:
- Protein: Grilled chicken, fish, or well-cooked meat.
- Carbohydrates: Rice, pasta, or boiled potatoes.
- Fresh or cooked vegetables: zucchini, carrots, or salad.
Ideas for Easy-to-Prepare Healthy Meals for Children at Nursery
Healthy, easy-to-prepare meals for children at nursery that nourish and encourage them to eat without getting bored:
- Homemade fruit muffins.
- Homemade oat biscuits.
- A tub of yogurt with fruit pieces.
- Tortilla bread with grilled chicken and lettuce.
- White cheese sandwich with cucumber and tomato.
- Mini pizza on brown bread with vegetables and cheese.
Healthy meals that help children focus and concentrate at nursery
Some foods contain nutrients that stimulate brain activity and improve concentration. These are healthy meals for children at nursery:
- Eggs.
- Tuna and salmon.
- Spinach and broccoli.
- Berries, grapes, and oranges.
- Nuts and flax seeds.
- Oatmeal and whole wheat bread.
Meals to avoid giving children at nursery.
There are some meals that should be avoided due to their negative impact on children and are not healthy meals for children at nursery:
- Fast food such as burgers and French fries.
- Salty crackers such as chips.
- Canned juices and soft drinks.
- Sweets and sweets such as chocolate and biscuits.
Essential nutrients that children need at nursery
Important nutrients are provided in the form of healthy meals for children at nursery, including:
- Iron.
- Protein.
- Calcium. Carbohydrates.
- Healthy fats.
- Vitamins and minerals.
Are there healthy alternatives to sweets and crackers for children in nursery
Yes, unhealthy sweets and crackers can be replaced with healthy meals for children in nursery, such as fresh or dried fruit slices, yogurt with natural fruits, and nuts.
You can also make popcorn at home without excess fat, and serve cheese cubes with vegetables or homemade oat biscuits. These alternatives give children their favorite flavor with nutritional value.
Healthy drinks offered to children in nursery
- Water.
- Yogurt.
- Fruit milkshakes (smoothies).
- Natural juices without added sugar.
Summary of healthy meals for children in nursery
Proper nutrition for children in nursery is the foundation for their physical and mental development, providing them with energy and focus. A healthy diet relies on a variety of nutrients and drinking adequate amounts of water.
Healthy meals for children in nursery should include a complete breakfast, snacks, and a balanced lunch, avoiding processed foods and excess sugars.