Childhood obesity is an increasing concern in the UK, with the latest figures from NHS England revealing that 1 in 8 toddlers and primary school-aged children are affected. At Shotley Bridge Nursery School, we are deeply committed to addressing this concern, focusing on the health and wellbeing of each child. Our holistic approach ensures that children not only receive nutritious meals, but are also engaged in active, joyful play that encourages a love for movement. We aim to foster healthy habits that will benefit them for life.
Providing Nutritious Meals with Apetito
At Shotley Bridge Nursery School, we understand the importance of establishing a healthy relationship with food from the earliest age. We partner with Apetito, a trusted supplier of nursery meals, to provide a rich and varied menu. Apetito chefs work with in-house nutritionists and dieticians to form meals that fulfil the nutritional requirements of pre-school aged children, priding themselves upon using fresh ingredients and a commitment to supporting British farming. Their meals are carefully prepared to offer a variety of tastes and textures, ensuring that children enjoy a broad experience of healthy eating.
High quality mealtimes are a fundamental part of our provision, with so many avenues of potential learning available. Children at Shotley Bridge Nursery School are involved in the process of planting, nurturing, harvesting, and preparing fruits and vegetables in our garden, giving them a tangible connection to the food they eat. By engaging all of their senses, we help children develop an appreciation for healthy food choices. Mrs Wilkinson, Nursery Manager at Shotley Bridge Nursery School, describes how mealtime conversations introduce the children to endless concepts:
“We describe the textures, tastes, and even sounds of the food they’re eating, like the satisfying crunch of a carrot. These experiences encourage independence, allowing children to express their likes and dislikes whilst empowering them to make positive choices about food.“
Our aim is to ensure that these positive food experiences support the children’s natural development, building a foundation for healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.
Addressing the Obesity Challenge
At Shotley Bridge Nursery School, we recognise the growing concern of childhood obesity. With increasing reports highlighting the negative impacts of poor diet and sedentary lifestyles on children’s health, we are dedicated to providing a supportive environment that promotes both nutrition and physical activity.
The key to combating obesity lies in balance. By offering children a wide variety of nutrient-rich meals through Apetito’s carefully crafted menus, we ensure that their bodies receive the right fuel to support their growth. Our meals are designed to be not only delicious but balanced, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients, vegetables, and foods that support long-term wellbeing.
Encouraging Active Play
Alongside a nutritious diet, physical activity plays an equally important role in fostering children’s overall health. At Shotley Bridge Nursery School, we create a “yes” environment where children’s natural urges for movement and exploration are embraced. We’ve moved away from the “Cotton Wool Culture”, where children are overly sheltered. Instead, we provide safe, managed opportunities for them to engage in active play and challenge their physical capabilities.
Mrs Wilkinson emphasises the importance of this approach:
“We nurture the children’s innate instincts to explore and move. We believe that supporting them in these natural urges is vital for their development, both physically and mentally. Children at Shotley Bridge Nursery School are encouraged to participate in a wide range of opportunities — from musical movement and action songs to our carefully designed physical exercise programmes.”
These daily physical opportunities not only help build motor skills but also foster a love of movement, laying the groundwork for an active, healthy lifestyle. Our Bouncing Bridges Programme is one such initiative that promotes fun, physical play whilst building fundamental physical skills of strength, balance, coordination, and a deep awareness of their own bodies.
Building Healthy Habits Early
We believe that mealtimes and physical activities are equally important components of a child’s development. By focusing on healthy eating and active play, Shotley Bridge Nursery School provides a nurturing environment where children can thrive. Our goal is to foster positive habits that support both physical and emotional wellbeing, ensuring that children are equipped to make healthy choices as they grow.
Tackling childhood obesity begins in the early years, and at Shotley Bridge Nursery School, we are committed to playing our part in this important effort. Through our partnership with Apetito and our emphasis on active play, we strive to support the health of our children in every way possible.
Sources:
- Apetito Nursery Meals Service: Apetito Nursery Meals
- NHS England News, One in eight toddlers and primary school-aged children obese: NHS England Survey, September 2024
- BBC Radio 4, Childhood Obesity – The Report: BBC Radio 4 Childhood Obesity
