62 replies to this topic

[Laura Austin]

How awful! I can't imagine having to go through that. When I was interviewing preschool directors, every single one said it was no problem to accommodate us bringing our own meals, to protect my daughter from having an allergic reaction.

That said, many daycares don't want to accommodate vegetarian diets either. When my oldest was in daycare, they repeatedly gave my daughter meat (which made her cry in the night) and milk (which made her projectile vomit) against my wishes.

[Taleena Ratliff]

I know I'm a little late on this topic, but wanted to say I understand. When I was in the market for a daycare, every one I checked followed the state nutrition plan which included pop tarts for breakfast 2x per week. It was seriously horrible, and I had to get a doctor's note to say that my son would be allowed to have breastmilk at daycare after 12 months. Ridiculous. Anyway, I finally found one that had an agreement where I had to sign a consent form saying that I would provide all my son's meals and snacks, the cost of day care would stay the same, and they are not required to meet his nutritional needs. The compromise was that if he didn't eat the food I provided, he would have the option to eat chicken nuggets or whatever the other kids were eating. Go over that lady's head and see if you can set something like this up!

[4sunshine]

Coming from a centers perspective.. I have been in a childcare center as a teacher and a program supervisor for the past year. I can tell you that our meals come from the health and food guidelines from the state. With that said I do believe there can be improvement on what the "kitchen" chooses to provide. The director and cook are required (at least in WA) to attend classes on what the state feels is best and balanced nutrition for children. However we are human not always educated in nutrition (although most seems to be common sense). I try to put my own advice/opinion into what I feed the kids in my class and influence the overall food program. I also substitute when medically required and try to accommodate the parents wishes. Bottom line my suggestion to you and anyone else who is concerned about their child's childcare lunch/snacks, instead of telling them what is wrong with their program suggest some changes. As an educated person in nutrition, offer to help them "revamp" their food program. I would love if someone came to me and offered that. Like you I am concerned for my children. That is why the take their lunch to school (they are in grade school now). It is my hope that this encourages you not offends you. Blessings