Food and Feeding

Food is closely linked to nutrition, health and learning. As a childcare provider, you play an important role in how children learn about and interact with food.

Planning and Preparing Healthy Food

Child Care Resources from Ontario Dietitians in Public Health reflect current best practices for creating supportive nutrition environments in the childcare setting. These resources will help providers meet the food and drink requirements set out in the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014 (section 42 of Ontario Regulation (O. Reg.) 137/15: General).

Safe Food Handling

Many foodborne illnesses can be prevented by following safe food-handling practices. Refer to our safe food handling page to learn more.

Food Allergies

Allergic reactions happen when the body’s immune system reacts strongly to food and non-food triggers, such as insect stings or medication. Allergic reactions are more common in children and those with family history of allergies. Symptoms can vary in type, severity and develop at different rates. Allergic reaction can cause anaphylaxis and be life threatening.

Food intolerances are sensitivities that do not involve the immune system but may cause a reaction. Usually, these reactions are caused by the inability to digest or absorb certain foods or food components.

Safe food handling and reading food labels is important for both allergies and intolerances to prevent cross-contamination and exposure to trigger foods.

Childcare centres are required to have an anaphylaxis policy and develop individualized plans for children at risk for anaphylaxis (Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014 (section 42 of Ontario Regulation (O. Reg.) 137/15: General).

Resources from Food Allergy Canada: