• Is there a feeding schedule? Look for feedings 2-3 hours apart.


• Is an adequate volume of food provided?


• If your child goes for 4-7 hours a day, the program should provide 2-3 meals (which includes substantial snacks).


• if your child attends 8 or more hours, the program should provide 3-4 meals/snacks. Snacks should be substantial, not a couple of saltines.

• Are fruits and vegetables offered? Children need at least 5 servings a day. The number of serving depends on the length of time in daycare and the size of the serving depends on the child's age.


• Is milk offered with meals/snacks? Juice is not an appropriate substitute, because most juices provide little or no protein, calcium, and vitamin D.


• Are sweet foods ("junk food") offered in small quantities only?


• Is a variety of foods offered?


• Are there foods from different cultures?


• As a parent, can you have a role in selecting the menu?

• Are unsweetened, iron fortified cereals used?
  Are the foods prepared without added sugar or salt?


• Does the program make accommodations for children with special diet needs?


• Is the food preparation carried out in a clean kitchen, far from toileting or diaper-changing activities, with good handwashing?


• Does the staff follow safe food preparation practices?

• Is the setting clean and well-lit


• Is the furniture appropriate for your child's age? Laps or infant seats for infants, high chairs for toddlers, and small-sized chairs and tables for preschool children?

• Are mealtimes pleasant?


• Do the teachers sit with the children to eat, and do they talk with the children during meals?

• Daycare Issues


• Feeding Your Child

© Copyright 2004 The Dr. Spock Company. All Rights Reserved.