Nutrition

Our Food Philosophy

“It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that children ages 2 to 11 years should achieve optimal physical and cognitive development, attain a healthy weight, enjoy food, and reduce the risk of chronic disease through appropriate eating habits and participation in regular physical activity.”

Right Steps® supports this position by providing healthy meals that adhere to The American Heart Association’s Dietary Recommendations and the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans for infants, children, and adolescents.

Organic Ingredients

The Dietary Guidelines place emphasis on the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fat-free and low-fat dairy products, and seafood. In addition, they recommend that the diet be lower in sodium, saturated and trans fats, as well as added sugars and refined grains.

Right Steps® also puts emphasis on using organic foods when possible and supports local agriculture. Organic foods are free from synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), ensuring your child enjoys wholesome, nutritious foods.

Balanced Meals

Balanced meals are at the heart of our food philosophy. Each meal is crafted to include a variety of food groups, creating a well-rounded diet. This balance helps to provide the essential nutrients needed for growth and brain development while preventing the intake of empty calories. Our commitment to balanced meals supports healthy eating patterns that contribute to your child’s overall well-being.

What a Typical Daily Meal Plan Looks Like

Our meal plan includes breakfast, lunch, and snacks designed to keep energy levels stable so students can reach their full potential.

Breakfast

Breakfast is a vital part of children’s diets and our daily meal plan. We provide a range of options that include fresh fruits, whole grains, and dairy or dairy alternatives. A typical breakfast might feature oatmeal with berries, yogurt with granola, or whole-grain toast with avocado. These choices are designed to kickstart the day with essential nutrients and energy, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.

Lunch

Our lunch offerings include lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains, all aimed at maintaining balanced nutrition. A typical lunch might consist of grilled chicken with quinoa, a side of steamed broccoli, and a mixed greens salad. By incorporating a variety of food groups, we ensure that children receive the necessary nutrients during the most critical time in their lives.

Snacks

Healthy snacks are an integral part of our meal plan. We offer a selection of nutritious options, such as fruit slices, whole-grain crackers, and vegetable sticks with hummus. These snacks are designed to provide sustained energy and prevent hunger between meals, supporting overall well-being and helping to maintain focus and activity levels.

Catering to Dietary Needs

We recognize that each child’s dietary needs are unique, which is why we accommodate various dietary restrictions and preferences. Whether your child requires a gluten-free diet, has food allergies, or follows a specific nutritional regimen, our team works closely with parents to meet their needs accordingly.

How We Teach Kids About Healthy Eating

Encouraging healthy eating habits from an early age is essential for establishing lifelong patterns of good nutrition. At Right Steps®, we focus on teaching children about nutritious foods and the benefits of balanced eating. By integrating educational elements into our meals and activities, we help children understand the importance of making healthy food choices and how they impact their daily lives.

Food Preparation and Safety

At Right Steps ®, we take food preparation and safety seriously. Our kitchen staff undergoes extensive training in food handling and sanitation practices so that all meals are prepared in a clean, safe, and hygienic environment. We also closely monitor food temperatures and expiration dates to maintain the highest standards of food quality and safety.

From infants to kindergarteners, we guarantee that all solid foods are cut into age-appropriate, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking hazards. In the unlikely event of a food-related emergency, you can rest assured that our team is trained to act quickly and effectively.

Questions About Nutrition? Call Now!

If you have any questions or concerns about the nutrition of the meals we provide, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is ready to provide you with detailed information about our food philosophy, meal offerings, and our mission of supporting the health and development of every child in our care.