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:

Policy:

Our childcare center is committed to supporting the health and well-being of all children by providing nutritious, safe, and culturally inclusive food options. We accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, and cultural preferences in collaboration with families. Parents are able to opt out of the center provided food, and provide their own food for their child.

Example Food and Meal Time Procedures:

Snacks and Lunch:

  • Lunch and snacks will be planned following Canada's Food Guide.

  • A posted weekly menu will include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein sources. Menus will be reviewed and updated regularly.

  • Families are encouraged to share recipes or suggestions to incorporate culturally significant foods.

Allergy and Dietary Restrictions:

Parents/guardians must provide information about their child's allergies or dietary needs upon enrollment, updated as necessary. All allergy-related information will be clearly posted in the food preparation area and classrooms.

Food Safety:

Food will be stored, prepared, and served according to provincial health and safety regulations.

Meal Supervision and Practices:

  • Staff will sit with children during meals times.

  • Food will never be used as a reward or punishment, be withheld and children will not be forced to eat any foods.

Parent-Supplied Food:

  • Parents providing food for their child must ensure it is labeled with the child's name and meets the center's allergy policies.

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/