Snack time is an essential part of the curriculum, and can be a great moment for social interaction and learning. The children are encouraged to be self sufficient by serving and cleaning up after themselves. This is also an opportunity for them to make choices and try new foods.
For safety, food is consumed in the snack area, and children should be sitting down, to avoid choking hazards. Initially, hand-washing and snacktime may seem chaotic, as the children learn new skills, but as the year progresses, the children become more and more competent at the table, and it is a joy to listen to their conversations and see their blossoming independence.
Food Preparation
Due to the increased awareness of food-borne illnesses and the importance of proper hygiene, food must be prepared on the premises.
- Food must arrive at the Preschool in its original sealed package.
- All fruits and vegetables must be washed thoroughly at school.
- All baked goods such as bread or muffins must be prepared at school.
- Hands must be washed before preparing food, and before serving & eating snack.
- Garbage must be removed at the end of each class.
Serving Snack
- Toddler and 2-3 groups will provide children with individual servings.
- 3-4 & 4-5 groups will serve family style, where tongs will be supplied for the children to serve themselves.
- Only small portions should be served, with seconds available for children who need more.
- Unserved food will remain in the kitchen, and be taken home at the end of class.
- Served but uneaten food should be discarded or put in the compost.
Snack Parent Should
- Bring a roll of paper towels.
- Prepare snack by the designated time in your class.
- Use bleach solution on the snack table and place the children’s mats at one end for self-selection.
- Place on the table:
- Cups
- Beverage pitcher
- Food baskets and tongs
- Snack sponge
- Monitor the table to help children with social skills and replenish snack as necessary.
- Help children clean up their snack area when they are done with snack.
- Wipe down each placemat with bleach solution.
- Wash all dishes and place in drainer.
- Take home the kitchen and bathroom trash and replace the trash bags.
Snack Helper Should
- Assist the snack parent with set-up.
- Help children wash their hands and get seated.
- Monitor snack tables to help the children with serving and social skills.
- Wash tables with bleach solution and paper towels when snack is over.
- Sweep the floor of the snack/art area.