Snack Time Policy
At Springfield Park Road Nursery we encourage children to make healthy choices, and we regard snack and lunch times as an important part of the Nursery routine.
Nursery Children have snacks provided during their Nursery session these snacks consist of selection of fruit, breadsticks, toast and a choice of milk or water.
Before the child starts Nursery we find out from parents what their child’s dietary needs are including any allergies and record this in the child’s file and it is also displayed clearly in the Nursery kitchen area and at the snack station.
Food hygiene
· All fruit is stored in a temperature-controlled fridge
· Fruit is washed before prep
· Food preparation area is cleaned down with antibacterial spray before and after preparation
· Utensils used for preparation are washed and put away
· Staff ensure food is prepared properly in the kitchen area staff wear an apron and gloves
· Staff spray tables where children sit with antibacterial spray before and after snack time
· Children wash their hands before eating
· Dishes are washed and dried after snack time
Food Safety
· Paediatric Trained staff sit with children when eating
· Fruit is cut up small to prevent choking
· Fruit is put in a bowl then children encouraged to choose more themselves
· Children must finish snack before getting up, not to walk around with fruit in their mouths
· All milk drinks are placed in red cups to ensure children with milk allergies are not given a cup that has had milk in. Blue cups for water only.
· Any large pips are removed
Social time
Staff ensure snack time is an enjoyable experience and role model healthy lifestyles by eating fruits with the children, encouraging them to make healthy choices and using manners at snack time. Staff also help children to develop independence and encourage children to serve food and drink themselves, children are also encouraged to help clean down the tables before and after snack times.
If a child does not wish to eat a snack staff encourage children to come to the table for a drink instead.
This policy was revised on May 2026 by Nursery Manager & Deputy Manager Next review date: September 2027
