HSCS: 1.33, 1.35, 1.37, 1.38, 2.21
| Policy Details |
| Snack Time Procedure: At Willow Den we offer a rolling snack to allow children to follow their own hunger cues and to avoid interrupting play. Snack is a more informal event: 1. ELC staff agree when the set up time will be and who will be preparing snack and who will be clearing away. The staff member preparing the snack will be responsible for checking allergies, dietary requirements and food preferences. 2. There is a general location for snack but this changes on a day-to-day basis following the interests of children e.g. we may prepare and enjoy pizzas, have a picnic or a combination. Children will always have plates or bowls and cutlery if required, and a safe, relaxed and unhurried place to sit to eat. 3. We usually set up between 9 – 9.30 am and clear away between 10 – 10.30 am. This can be impacted by the needs of the children on any given day. 4. Food preparation will be done on a suitable surface which has been hygienically cleaned. 5. We expect staff to ensure all children know when snack is available and where they can come to get it. Children communicate their hunger in different ways, and we expect all staff to support children’s own hunger cues. 6. Children will be encouraged to wash their hands before handling any food. 7. We prefer snack to be self-service to promote independence, where children can choose what they have. This is an opportunity for children to learn portion control and understand how and why to share food. 8. We encourage children to clear up after themselves e.g. by cleaning left overs into a bowl and stacking used plates and cups. 9. When children have finished, one ELC staff member will be responsible for making sure everything is cleared away appropriately. Lunch time procedures: At Willow Den lunch time is a static event. This provides: – A positive opportunity for children and staff to gather; – A time to share food together socially like a family; – And to allow a hot meal to be delivered. 1. ELC staff agree when the set up time will be and who will be preparing lunch and who will be clearing away. The staff member preparing snack will be responsible for checking allergies, dietary requirements and food preferences. 2. Lunchtime usually starts between 11.30 am and 12 noon. 3. All food preparation surfaces are hygienically cleaned before lunchtime. 4. The staff member preparing lunch will collect the food from the provider ensuring they check and record the temperature of the meal using a food temperature probe. Each site will have specific procedures for food delivery but staff will always check and record temperatures before serving. 5. Children are encouraged to get themselves ready to go for lunch (i.e. gather their bags and belongings) 6. When arriving at the lunch area, all children and staff will wash their hands before sitting down. 7. Children are encouraged to choose their own cups and cutlery. 8. Staff members will serve up lunch in plates or bowls which are cooled before they are handled by the children. 9. Serving staff will ensure that appropriate PPE is worn when serving up food. 10. All staff are encouraged to sit, eat and talk with the children. Lunchtime is a positive and sociable event which promotes good conversation and table manners. 11. Children are not rushed to eat and will be offered extra portions of food, if they wish. 12. Children are encouraged to clear up after lunch. Food waste bins are provided for the children to dispose of any leftovers. 13. Children clean their hands and face after eating. 14. Staff members will wipe down the surfaces and sweep the floor. 15. Dirty dishes are taken to the kitchen to be loaded into the dishwasher. |
