In series 3 of our Sustainability in the Childminder’s Home, we will look at how you can reduce food waste while making thoughtful choices for snacks and meals.
We will begin with a quote from a fellow childminder, Betsy, who tells us that “I only give what I know the children are capable of eating so there is no throwing out excess food.” Betsy’s advice aligns with HSE guidelines “Give your child a portion that matches their size – they can ask for more if they are still hungry”.
Visit the HSE website to learn about Portion sizes, and explore their complete guidelines, including tips on best practice and common mistakes to avoid. Here is a quick overview of their do’s and don’t:
DO…
- Give your child a portion that matches their size – they can ask for more if they are still hungry.
- Use the children’s food pyramid as a portion guide.
- Give them child-size cutlery to make it easier for them to feed themselves.
- Give them child-size plates and bowls.
Don’t…
- Give your child the same amount of food as you.
- Give them large portions – even if it’s healthy food.
- Pressure your child to eat all on their plate if they say they are full.
Safe Food is an online resource which raises awareness and provides guidance on food safety and nutrition. Their resources include tips on meal planning, safe food storage, proper cooking techniques, along with a variety of recipe ideas.
Another excellent resource is the Stop Food Waste website, where you will find plenty of simple tips and tools to help you make the most of your food, keep it fresh longer, and reduce food waste.
Here are a few additional tips to help you to reduce waste, save money, and enjoy delicious, sustainable options:
- Prepare a weekly meal plan that will help you to avoid overbuying and ensures food does not go bad before you can use it.
- Make a shopping list and only buy what you need and beware of impulse buying.
- Store food properly to keep it fresh longer.
- Make your own snacks from whole foods such as fruit, veggie sticks and nuts. Check out some great healthy snack ideas here.
- Use up leftovers and make last night’s dinner today’s lunch with a few creative changes.
- For any unavoidable food scraps, put them in your compost bin.
- Teach children about food waste by involving them in meal preparation and grocery shopping. Explain the importance of not wasting food.
Here are some additional resources you may find helpful:
❤ Don’t Waste Food | | Animation For Babies | BabyBus (youtube.com)
Kids Go Green: Reducing Food Waste | PBS LearningMedia
Waste Free Tips Archives | The Zero Waste Kitchen by Christine Tizzard
By incorporating these small, practical changes into your daily routine, you can make a positive impact on the environment, save money, and provide the children with healthy, sustainable meal options.