Nutrition Policies
At Little Elephant, we serve children two snacks a day and a lunch that is provided by the parent. We ask that parents follow Healthy Eating Guidelines. Meals are served family style. A teacher is present, and adequate time is given for eating and pleasant conversation. Children are encouraged to serve themselves and try all food, but are never forced to eat. Active involvement in food service, and table set-up and clean-up is included. We ask that only staff serves food to the children. This is done in order to avoid serving foods to children who may have specific food allergies.
Snacks- Provided mid-morning and again after naptime. Snacks include fruit/vegetables, grains and proteins.
A list of all snacks we provide will be on the enrollment form.
Lunch- Is served around 12:00 -12:15 pm
Meals at the school are served “family-style”. At meal time, the table is set with plates and flatware. The food is placed in serving bowls from which the children can help themselves. Good table manners are modeled and encouraged. If your child has a food allergy, you must notify us in writing so that we can make appropriate substitutions.
The written notification should list appropriate food substitutions and must be updated at least annually. Food allergies can be life threatening and each child with a food allergy should have an action plan for emergency care completed by the family physician.
Severe Food Allergies or Special Diets In order to ensure the safety of children with severe food allergies (extreme and rapid reactions, allergic to many foods, etc.) or those requiring a highly specialized diet (gluten free, strictly vegan, kosher, etc.), the school reserves the right to request that families bring their child’s food that has been prepared according to individual needs.