Healthy Eating at Wildlings

At Wildlings, healthy eating is a central part of our commitment to nurturing happy, thriving children. We believe that positive food experiences in early childhood lay the foundation for lifelong healthy habits. Mealtimes are not only opportunities for nourishment, but also for connection. Children and adults sit together, share stories, and enjoy a calm, social environment that encourages communication and community.

To support this ethos, we’ve introduced Bento lunch boxes for all children. These uniform boxes help us store food safely and hygienically, especially in warmer months, while also supporting our sustainability values by reducing single-use plastics and food waste. Bento boxes also allow for mindful portion sizes and the inclusion of a variety of healthy, balanced food options.

We kindly ask families to partner with us by avoiding foods high in sugar, salt, or unhealthy fats, such as sweets, chocolate, and processed snacks and instead aim to fill Bento boxes with colourful fruits and vegetables, wholegrains, healthy fats, and quality proteins. We regularly share examples and inspiration for healthy, appealing meals to make packing easier and more enjoyable.

At Wildlings, breakfast and all snacks we provide are freshly prepared using wholesome ingredients, with careful attention to dietary needs, allergies, and cultural or religious preferences. Children are never pressured to finish meals, and portion sizes are realistic, respecting individual appetites.

Breakfast

We have a busy, physical day at Wildlings and it’s important your child has a filling healthy breakfast. We ensure a healthy breakfast by offering:

·         A whole gain cereal such as porridge, Weetabix or shredded wheat with no added sugar.

·         Fresh fruit which counts as one of their 5 a day.

·         Full fat, no added sugar or sweeteners yoghurt

·         Wholemeal bread/toast- with cream cheese, marmite or nut butter.

Snack time

We all know that after a busy session playing your child can be really hungry, so midafternoon we offer;

Humus, cheddar cheese, nut butter or cream cheese with;

·         Veg sticks

·         Pitta bread strips

·         Breadsticks

·         Oat cakes

·         Rice cakes

·         Chunks of melon, strawberries, apple, satsumas, blueberries & cut grapes.

 Water is available throughout the day via children's own clearly labelled water bottles, which should contain plain tap water only.

Baking at Wildlings

We bake most weeks using fresh ingredients, when available. We also use seasonal produce that we have grown in the allotment. We do sometimes bake sweet treats as we believe that there is no such thing as bad food and everything is allowed in moderation.

I only use free range eggs. Some examples of baking your child will be offered;

· Whole meal bread rolls/ a variety of different breads from around the world

· Vegetable soup

· Biscuits

· Cakes

· Cheese scones

· Crumbles

 While we emphasise nutritious choices, we also embrace the joy of occasional treats as part of celebrations and festivals. If you have any concerns about this, we’re always happy to chat.