Nutrition with a Purpose
Our menus are planned with the MyPlate and Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) meal pattern guidelines in mind. These guidelines help encourage balanced meals and snacks that include important food groups such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy. We aim to offer a variety of foods, colors, and textures to help little cubs explore new flavors while developing healthy eating habits.
Healthy Meals, Happy Cubs!
Start the Day Off Right
We believe a great day starts with a good breakfast!
From whole-grain waffles and French toast to eggs, turkey bacon, fresh fruit, and milk, we strive to provide a balanced breakfast that supports growing bodies and busy minds. We offer a variety of flavors and familiar favorites to help children feel comfortable while building healthy eating habits.
We also encourage independence by giving children the flexibility to enjoy breakfast at their own pace. Whether they're ready to eat as soon as they arrive or need a little time to wake up and settle in, we want every cub to feel comfortable starting their morning in a way that works for them.
Building Independence, One Choice at a Time
We believe children deserve opportunities to make age-appropriate choices throughout their day, and mealtime is no exception! At Cubs nā Chaos, children get to choose their fruit and vegetable sides from the options available on our daily lunch menu. We also make trying new foods fun with our Friday Try Days! Each Friday, children are encouraged to taste a new vegetable and explore different flavors, colors, and textures in a positive, low-pressure environment. We celebrate curiosity and every little step toward trying something newābecause even one tiny taste can be a big adventure!
Beyond mealtime, our little cubs have opportunities to make choices throughout the day, including voting on which book they would like to hear during story time and which movie they would like to watch during rest time. These everyday decisions help children practice independence, build confidence, express their preferences, and feel more involved in their daily routines.
Snack Time, Craft Time
At Cubs nā Chaos Daycare, snack time is more than just a chance to refuelāitās another opportunity to learn, create, and have fun! Sometimes, snack time becomes an extension of our daily craft and fine motor activities. Children may have the opportunity to help prepare their own snacks or make simple, child-friendly treats as part of a hands-on activity. From mixing ingredients and spreading toppings to measuring, pouring, and decorating, these experiences help little hands practice important skills while making learning fun.
Including snack preparation in our activities encourages creativity, independence, following directions, and early practical life skills. It also gives children a chance to explore different foods and feel proud of something they helped create!
Whether we're enjoying a favorite snack or making a special treat together, we make snack time a fun and meaningful part of the dayābecause learning can happen in the kitchen, too!