Snack Guidelines

Importance of snack time 
When the children gather around the table for snack, it’s more than just a time to nourish their bodies; it’s also a time to learn social skills, table manners, and about healthy eating.

All of our snacks are served family style, with the children sitting together and taking their time to enjoy a mini meal with friends. Children pour water from pitchers, use polite manners when eating or asking for food, and clear their spots after snack. Appropriate table discussion, guided by the teacher, gives children the opportunity to take turns sharing experiences and stories.

Snack Guidelines 
Snacks are provided by the helping parent and are an opportunity for your child to share a favorite healthy snack. Because we approach snack as a mini meal, it’s important to provide healthy, nutritious options. Snack should include a fruit or vegetable, paired with a whole grain or protein (or both).

Some class favorites have included:
• Fresh popped corn with apples
• Cheese cubes and carrot sticks
• Whole wheat bagels with cream cheese and strawberries
• Fruit salad with yogurt

Snack should never include:
• Food dyes such as red #40
• High fructose corn syrup
• Fruit that has been dried with added sugars, oils, or sulfites
• Artificial sweeteners

Birthdays 
For your child’s birthday, a favorite treat, such as cupcakes, cookies, or ice cream, can be shared with the class for snack. Fruit should also be a part of birthday snack.

Allergies
If your child has allergies, you can share details and provide snack or brand suggestions with the other parents at the class orientation. All parents work together to provide safe and healthy snacks for all the children in the class. For more information, please read our Allergy Policy.