Running a dayhome means that meals and snacks are part of the rhythm of every day. Mealtime is not only about feeding children—it is also an important opportunity to build routines, support development, and create positive experiences around food.

This session explores how dayhome providers can create supportive and enjoyable mealtime environments that encourage children to develop healthy relationships with food. Participants will be introduced to the foundations of menu planning using Canada’s Food Guide, including the plate model, food group balance, and appropriate beverage choices for young children.

Beyond what we serve, this session also looks at how we serve food. We will explore strategies for building positive feeding relationships with children, supporting independence through family-style meals, and creating predictable routines that help mealtimes run smoothly in a mixed-age dayhome environment.

Participants will also discuss common challenges that arise during meals and snacks, including transitions to the table, picky eating, hesitation to try new foods, and navigating differing appetites. Practical strategies will be shared to help providers respond to these situations in ways that reduce stress and keep mealtimes positive for both children and educators.

This session is designed with the dayhome setting in mind and will provide practical, developmentally appropriate approaches that providers can apply immediately in their programs. By the end of the session, participants will leave with ideas and strategies that help make mealtimes calmer, more supportive, and more enjoyable for everyone at the table.