Winter in child care often sounds like boots thumping in the hallway, snowpants swishing, and little voices warming up the room. And tucked into those busy winter days, you will often hear a few sniffles and tiny coughs along the way.
This time of year, food becomes more than what is on the plate. It becomes comfort after outdoor play. It becomes something familiar that helps children settle into the day. It becomes one less thing to think about, because you already have enough on your plate.
That is why our winter menus are built to be comforting and nourishing at the same time. During cold and flu season, we make intentional choices that support children’s immunity and energy. You will see daily fruits and vegetables, warm meals that feel easy to eat, and balanced pairings that include protein, fibre, and whole grains. Most of the time, it is the basics done well, again and again.
You might notice it in the small moments. A warm lunch that helps everyone reset after outdoor play. A snack that feels familiar when a child is having a tender day. A menu that supports the room when appetites shift and energy dips.
Seasonal spotlight: bright foods for grey days
In February, we lean into simple ingredients that bring colour and freshness when produce can feel a little less exciting. You will see pairings like:
- clementines with a whole wheat maple round
- snow peas with pita and hummus
- kiwi with vanilla yogurt
These foods are not just cheerful on the plate. Clementines and kiwi naturally bring vitamin C, and crunchy options like snow peas add fibre. They are small daily choices that help support children’s wellness through the winter months.
A care note from our Registered Dietitian
Cold and flu season can change the mood of a classroom quickly. Appetites can shift. Some children want familiar foods. Some want smaller bites. In weeks like this, our goal is to support children in a quiet, helpful way without adding extra work for educators.
That is why our winter menus stay balanced and predictable. We include warm, familiar foods and daily fruits and vegetables, and we build meals that support hydration, energy, and immune health. It is simple nourishment, made with intention, so children can eat, grow, and thrive through the winter months.