Nutrition for Little Learners

December is a fun and festive month, but it does tend to bring plenty of sugary treats. At Pendley Day Nursery, we know how important it is to keep little learners well-nourished so they can stay energised, focused and ready for play and learning each day.

Why Good Nutrition Matters in the Early Years

Children aged 1 – 5 grow quickly and need a balanced diet to support healthy bones, brain development and a strong immune system. Yet research from University College London shows that toddlers get almost half of their calories (47 per cent) from ultra-processed foods, rising to 59 per cent by age seven. These foods often contain more sugar, salt and saturated fat, and fewer nutrients needed for long-term health.

Another UK report from The Food Foundation found that children aged 18 – 60 months typically eat around 1.5 portions of vegetables per day, which is well below recommended levels.

Healthy habits formed now can shape eating preferences for years to come, so keeping things balanced during busy months like December really does make a difference.

What Does a Healthy Day of Eating Look Like?

Here are some simple, practical ideas used both at nursery and at home:

• Variety and balance
  A mix of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, dairy or alternatives, and protein sources like eggs, fish, beans and pulses.
• Regular meals and sensible snacks
  Small tummies need steady fuel. Three meals plus one or two nutritious snacks help keep energy and concentration stable.
• Limit sugary and salty snacks
  These can replace more nourishing options and increase tooth decay. Keeping treats to occasional moments helps maintain balance.
• Hydration matters
  Water and milk are the best everyday drinks. Juice and smoothies should be occasional, and ideally offered with meals.
  

And remember to be patient with new foods – children often need to see a new food several times before accepting it. Gentle, repeated exposure works well.

Festive Season Swaps

With Christmas fun in full swing, here are a few easy ways to keep little ones topped up with the good stuff:

• Serve fruit with yoghurt or with a light sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, festive flavour, as an alternative to chocolate or biscuits.
• Offer colourful veg sticks with hummus or soft cheese as a snack.
• Keep sweet treats small and enjoy them after a meal rather than between meals.
• Stick mostly to water or milk, even at this time of year.
• Make food fun by talking about colours, shapes and textures – this also helps build confidence with new foods.

Our Approach at Pendley Day Nursery

Our team, led by Nursery Manager Lisa Caller, takes great care to offer balanced, nourishing meals and snacks each day. We avoid relying on sugary foods, encourage variety, and support children as they explore new tastes and textures at their own pace.

Good nutrition helps children feel settled, engaged and ready to learn, and we see the benefits every day in our bright, busy rooms and outdoor spaces.

If you’d like any ideas for snacks or lunchboxes at home, we’re always happy to help.

Come and see our nurturing environment in action and meet our dedicated team – where every day offers new opportunities for your child to grow, learn and develop. 

Please contact our Parent Engagement Co-Ordinator, Cassi Thompson, on telephone: 01442 967140 or by email to info@pendleydaynursery.com.