The Importance of Balanced Meals in Early Years
At My Ohana, we believe that healthy bodies fuel happy minds – and that starts with what’s on the plate.
The early years are a crucial window for growth, development, and forming lifelong habits, which is why providing balanced, nutritious meals at nursery is one of our top priorities.
Thanks to our partnership with the brilliant team at Nursery Kitchen, we’re able to offer delicious, home-style meals that don’t just taste good – they’re designed with children’s health and development in mind.
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Why Balanced Nutrition Matters in Early Years
In the first five years of life, children experience rapid brain growth, physical development, and the formation of long-term habits. The food they eat during this time lays the foundation for their overall health, energy levels, and even their mood and behaviour.
A balanced meal for a young child includes:
A variety of vegetables and fruit – for vitamins, minerals, and fibre
Carbohydrates – to fuel their active bodies and brains
Protein – to support growth and repair
Dairy (or alternatives) – for strong bones and teeth
Healthy fats – for brain development
Getting the right mix helps children develop strong immune systems, healthy digestion, good concentration, and a positive relationship with food.
What Balanced Meals Look Like at My Ohana
With Nursery Kitchen as our food partner, every meal is thoughtfully planned and nutritionally balanced to suit the needs of little ones. Meals are:
Free from added salt and sugar
Packed with variety, including different colours, textures, and tastes
Made using high-quality, responsibly sourced ingredients
Designed to meet the latest government and Eat Better, Start Better guidelines
Each day, children enjoy a mix of familiar favourites and new flavours that help expand their palate in a relaxed, supportive environment.
Top Tips For Healthy Eating at Home
We know healthy habits don’t stop at the nursery gates. If you’re looking for simple ways to support balanced eating at home, here are some top tips from Nursery Kitchen’s expert team:
Eat the rainbow
Encourage colourful meals with a mix of fruits and veggies – the more variety, the more nutrients!
Keep it fun and relaxed
Make mealtimes a positive experience. Involve your child in choosing or preparing food, and don’t stress if they don’t eat everything.
Repeat exposure is key
Children may need to try a new food multiple times before accepting it – keep offering without pressure.
Set a good example
Children are more likely to try new things if they see you enjoying them too.
Stick to a routine
Regular meals and snacks help regulate appetite and prevent overeating.
Limit added sugar and salt
Young children don’t need these added to their meals – their taste buds are developing and respond well to natural flavours.
You can find more parent-friendly ideas and inspiration over on the Nursery Kitchen website.
Teaching Healthy Habits That Last a Lifetime
Meal and snack times at My Ohana are about more than food – they’re an opportunity to learn and grow together. Children are encouraged to explore what’s on their plate, try new things, and develop confidence around food.
With support from Nursery Kitchen, we also weave nutrition into everyday learning. Whether it’s talking about where food comes from or helping serve lunch, these small moments help build healthy attitudes that will carry children through life.
Our Partnership with Nursery Kitchen
We’re proud to work with Nursery Kitchen, who are experts in early years nutrition. Their team of chefs and nutritionists are passionate about providing children with healthy, nourishing food that supports learning, development, and wellbeing.
Through this partnership, we gain access to:
Expert-designed menus
Allergen-aware meal options
Seasonal updates to reflect the best of fresh produce
Insightful parent resources to help support healthy eating at home
You can learn more about them here.
Want to Learn More?
If you’d like to explore what your child will be eating at nursery, or find inspiration for family mealtimes at home, keep an eye on our blog – we’ll be sharing simple recipes, nutrition tips, and more with thanks to our friends at Nursery Kitchen.
Or why not get in touch today!
