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Creating policies and procedures

It is important to continue to revisit your vision, goals and philosophy when creating policies and procedures. What is important? What does that look like? How do we want to get there? 

In this section, to provide an example of writing a policy we are going to explore creating a nutrition policy. 

First, you need to start by outlining the key components you wish to include. Reflect on the considerations mentioned above and incorporate them into the policy. Some key points to address include:

What general nutritional guidelines will the centre follow (for example, Canada’s Food Guide, or the Healthy Food Guide for First Nation's Communities).

  • Will parents provide food, or will the centre supply it?

  • What role will families and staff play in shaping this policy?

  • How will the centre accommodate children with allergies, special dietary needs, or cultural or religious practices?

  • How frequently should meals and snacks be provided throughout the day?

  • What measures will be implemented to ensure food safety?

  • What specific licensing requirements must be adhered to?

Writing the Policy and procedure

Once you have gathered all the information needed and aligned that information with your centre's philosophy and vision, you will be prepared to write a policy! Here is an example policy about food and meal times:

References

First Nations Health Authority. (2014). Healthy food guidelines for First Nations communities (2nd ed.).  https://www.fnha.ca/documents/healthy_food_guidelines_for_first_nations_communities.pdf

Health Canada. (2019). Canada's food guide. Government of Canada. https://food-guide.canada.ca/en/




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