Table 4 Self-assessment against award program criteria for early childhood services

1. Drinking water is available indoors and outdoors at all times and accessible to children (eg water bottles/water cooler/jugs).

2. Meals and snacks provided by the service and/or from home are nutritious and contribute to meeting the children's daily dietary and developmental requirements:

A. Fresh fruit and vegetables are provided every day in the menu planning and encouraged in lunchboxes.

3. Positive meal environments are planned to be relaxed, social and enjoyable by:

A. Children participating in serving, self feeding and sharing together

B. Encouraging children to try new foods regularly including different colours, textures, flavours and aromas

C. Providing the opportunity for staff/carers to sit with children when they are eating and drinking for role modelling, safety and socialisation

4. The following drinks and foods are not included in menu planning and are discouraged in lunchboxes. These include:

A. Soft drinks, flavoured mineral waters, sweetened flavoured milks, cordials, 100% juice, fruit juice drinks and vitamin C syrups. Only plain milk and water are offered.

B. Pre-packed items such as chips, chocolates, lollies and muesli and fruit bars.

5. Food is not used as a reward, an incentive or for comforting children.

6. Program plans regularly incorporate a variety of indoor and outdoor physical activities such as dance, drama, moving to music and active games. These are planned to encourage all children and cater for a range of abilities.