Playstation's Guide to Packed Lunches
Recently, the Department of Education released new guidance regarding healthy eating and nutrition. As a setting, Playstation implement this advice daily by providing healthy, nutritional snacks to all the children.
With this in mind, we would like to encourage all parents to consider the contents provided in your child's lunch box.
By providing a healthy, balanced and nutritional lunch, it ensures children receive the right amount of energy and and nutrients they need whilst growing, and supports the children with developing positive eating habits.
A portion size for a child is generally smaller than an adult portion. For toddlers, this would usually be the size of their clenched fist.
Please ensure all food is cut up to avoid choking, i.e., carrot or apple batons, or grapes cut lengthways.
Please do not include and nut-related items, such as peanut butter or chocolate spread that contains nuts.
Please do not include and sweets/chocolates (chocolate biscuits are okay).
It is suggested to choose something from each food group in order to ensure they receive a balanced lunch. We recognise that not all children enjoy sandwiches, so here are some suggested alternatives.
Other Information
Food Groups
Carbohydrates: bread, pasta, noodles, and rice
Protein: meat and poutry, meat alternatives, eggs, and fish
Dairy: cheese, yoghurt, and fromage frais
Fruit and vegetables
Sugary Food and Drink
It is important to remember it is not the amount of sugar or acid in your child's diet, but how often it is eaten. It is important to keep sugary foods to meal times. If your child wants a snack, try giving them rice cakes, cheese, vegetables, or fruit.
Sugar is found in fruit juices, fried fruit, squash, and sweet treats.
It is recommended that young children drink milk or water.
It is also recommended that you brush your child's teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.