Child making sand castles in play pit

Activities & Nutrition

“I have always been keen to educate others about how to achieve a healthy lifestyle which is why I gained a fitness instructing and nutrition qualification and continue work in the health and fitness industry. With good food habits and daily physical activity children will be well on their way to a healthier life.” – Jennie Crossley

At Growing Minds we recognise that the food a child eats in their early years can influence their dietary habits later in life, so our aim is to instil good habits and a healthy relationship with food. We know that if children eat more fruit and vegetables every day it will help them grow and develop, boosts their vitality and can reduce the risk of many chronic diseases.

Our menus are carefully planned in accordance with the latest government guidance which can be viewed on this LINK. The menus provide fresh, wholesome and balanced meals and snacks everyday.

Children are encouraged to enjoy their meals in a positive and sociable environment. They are supported to develop independence through making healthy choices, exploring a wide variety of foods and learning to serve and feed themselves.

At Growing Minds we are conscious that children should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. We acknowledge that this should include vigorous activities that make them ‘huff and puff’ and strengthening activities for their muscles and bones.

Our weekly physical activity program is carefully planned to ensure all children can experience a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. This is because we value the importance of regular physical activity for the healthy growth, development and well-being of all our children.

Nutrition

- We take nutrition very seriously. Here's a snapshot of what we provide: -
Young child holding a tub of strawberries

Breakfast

A selection of cereal, toast and seasonal fruits will be available daily:
Cereals: Wheat biscuits, rice crispies, corn flakes, porridge
Toast: White and wholemeal bread, crumpets, bagels
Seasonal Fruits:
Spring/Summer – Rhubarb, Blueberries, Currants, Strawberries
Autumn/Winter – Apples, Blackberries, Pears, Plums

Young girl eating water melon outside in the sun

Dinner

Salmon and Pea (or Bean and Pea) Risotto
Turkey meatballs (or veggie meatballs) with spaghetti
Roast chicken (or quorn fillets) with roast potatoes, root vegetables and gravy 
Beef lasagne (or vegetable lasagne) with garlic bread and peas

Young boy and girl with lolly pops in mouth sat down

Tea

Tuna fishcake (or potato and lentil cakes) with tomato relish
Pea and asparagus frittata with new potato salad
Vegetable soup with crusty bread
Mixed chilli beans severed with jacket potato

We cater for allergies and special dietary requirements. Please speak to the Nursery Manager to discuss your child/children(s) specific needs.

Activities

At Growing Minds our children will experience a variety of activities that develop the whole child – their social and emotional skills, physical skills, communication skills and cognitive skills. This will help to ensure that when our children leave to embark on their school journey they are equipped with the knowledge and skills they require to reach their full potential. We appreciate that children learn best when they are interested which is why we make learning activities fun and based on the children's interests.
Two young girls trowing leaves in the woods

Amazing Adventures

From local walks to taking a ride on the bus let's see where our adventures go.
Two young girls drawing in colouring book

Marvellous Maths

1, 2, 3, 4, 5…numbers are so much fun!
Little girl showing painted orange hands

Fantastic Phonics

Let’s explore a variety of sounds.
Baby giving high five to adult

Happy Hands

Let’s master the art of using our hands.
Baby yawning in cot with a orange head scarf

Restful Relaxation

Switch off your mind with activities that help you relax.
Boy jumping and splashing in puddle

Wonderful Workouts

5, 6, 7, 8 stretch up tall and bend down small!