Giving children seconds at meal times

[bradley12 Profile]

Hello!

We have some children who ask for seconds on a regular basis at meal time. There are a couple of children who are getting overweight and are causing us concern regarding providing extra portions. Are we able to refuse to give them extra portions because of our concerns or is this a breach of their rights?

It is a difficult issue to raise with our parents as we do not want to cause offence. I would welcome any useful ideas you might have regarding this matter, please!

[Ciaran_4Children Profile Website]

Hi Bradley, thanks for getting in contact. have you seen this excellent resource from the School Food Trust: http://www.schoolfoodtrust.org.uk/paren ... art-better? It has a section dedicated to early years professionals, and incldues tips on how to engage with parents.

One thing I would say is that it is important to communicate clearly with parents - perhaps more general communication with all parents about healthy eating might be a good way to raise people's knowledge levels in this area? It may feel less awkward to follow up with the parents you feel need extra assistance then too.

[bradley12 Profile]

Thanks for that, Ciaran. I'll take a look at the literature you've recommended.

[Sue R Profile]

Hi,

At my setting we freely give a second helping unless asked not to by parents. We tend to give a smallish first helping as we have found that sometimes children can be discouraged by a large meal and won't eat at all. We don't give more than one extra helping, however.

Sue