Food & Nutrition
At First Class Children’s Centre, we are committed to providing nutritious and inclusive meals that support the health and well-being of every child. Located in Hamilton, our centre offers a variety of dietary options, including vegan, vegetarian, Halal, and multiple religious meal choices, to ensure every child enjoys meals that align with their family’s needs and values.
Our certified staff carefully plan and prepare each meal to provide balanced nutrition while encouraging healthy eating habits from a young age.
Our food program emphasizes variety, quality, and cultural respect. Children enjoy wholesome, hands-on meals and snacks that introduce them to new flavors, support growth, and promote curiosity about healthy foods. By creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging dining experience, we ensure every child feels valued and supported. Parents trust First Class Children’s Centre for high-quality, inclusive meal options in Hamilton that nurture both body and mind.
Menu Planning
All meals and snacks at First Class Children’s Centre meet the Child Care and Early Years Act and follow Health Canada’s recommendations for feeding young children. Menus are planned according to the Menu Planning & Supportive Nutrition Environments in Child Care Settings Practical Guide.
Key principles include:
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Serving foods from the “Serve Most Often” category.
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Limiting “Serve Sometimes” foods to no more than three times per week.
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Avoiding foods and beverages in the “Do Not Serve” category.
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Providing lunch and two snacks for children in care for six or more hours.
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Ensuring age-appropriate portion sizes and spacing meals and snacks 2.5–3 hours apart.
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Including at least one fruit and one vegetable at every meal and snack, plus grains, milk/alternatives, and meat/alternatives at lunch.
Vegeterian Options
First Class Children’s Centre offers a variety of vegetarian meal options to support families who prefer plant-based nutrition for their children. Our vegetarian meals are thoughtfully planned to ensure they are balanced, wholesome, and rich in the nutrients essential for healthy growth and development. We work closely with families to accommodate preferences and ensure every child enjoys meals that align with their lifestyle and dietary needs.
Halal Options
First Class Children’s Centre is proud to offer Halal meal options to support the cultural and dietary needs of our families. We ensure all Halal meals are prepared with care, using ingredients and practices that align with Halal guidelines. Our team works closely with parents to provide children with nutritious, culturally respectful food choices so every child can enjoy safe, appropriate meals that honour their family’s traditions and values.
Vegan Options
First Class Children’s Centre is proud to offer nutritious vegan meal options to support the unique dietary needs of our families. Our vegan-friendly menu includes balanced, plant-based meals and snacks that provide children with the essential nutrients they need to grow and thrive. We carefully select wholesome ingredients and prepare meals that are both delicious and developmentally appropriate, ensuring every child enjoys healthy options that align with their family’s preferences and values.
Multiple Religion Options
First Class Children’s Centre is committed to supporting the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds of our families. We proudly offer multiple religious meal options, ensuring that children can enjoy nutritious foods that align with their family’s beliefs and dietary practices. Whether families require halal, kosher, vegetarian, or other faith-based accommodations, our team works closely with parents to provide meals that are respectful, inclusive, and appropriate for each child. Our goal is to make every child feel valued and supported during mealtimes while honoring the traditions that are important to them.
Nurturing Individual Potential
At First Class Children’s Centre, we are dedicated to nurturing each child’s individual potential. We recognize that every child learns, grows, and expresses themselves in unique ways, and our educators are committed to supporting those strengths. Through personalized guidance, hands-on experiences, and opportunities for exploration, we encourage children to build confidence, develop their abilities, and discover their passions. Our goal is to create an environment where every child feels seen, valued, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.