This week marked a milestone in the ongoing advocacy for better nutrition standards in early childhood education and care services. Leanne Elliston, FOCIS Chairperson and Executive Officer and Lead Dietitian at ACT Nutrition Support Service, alongside Kirsty Elliott CEO of Nutrition Australia QLD, took to the airwaves on ABC Canberra radio. Their joint appearance underscored the urgent need for nationally recognised nutrition standards and universal access to dietitians within early childhood education settings.
The formative years of a child’s life are crucial for their overall development. Access to nourishing foods during this period lays the foundation for lifelong health and well-being. Inconsistent nutrition standards across early childhood education and care services in Australia have led to disparities in the quality of food provided to children which can have long-term adverse effects on children’s health, growth, and development.
Advocates emphasised that every child, regardless of where they are enrolled, would benefit from national nutrition standards to ensure a consistent, high-quality approach to feeding our youngest learners.
Dietitians can play a vital role in planning and overseeing meal programs, ensuring that they meet the nutritional needs of young children. They also provide valuable education to staff and parents about healthy eating habits, which can have a lasting positive impact on children’s diets.
Universal access to dietitians within early childhood education settings would bridge the gap between nutrition guidelines and practical implementation, equipping educators and caregivers with the knowledge and resources necessary to provide optimal nutrition to children.
Following the radio segment, Leanne joined Dietitians Australia and the National Nutrition Network – Early Childhood Education and Care at Parliament House. This collaborative advocacy aimed to bring these important messages directly to policymakers.
The coalition met with key legislators, presenting compelling evidence and sharing stories that highlighted the positive impact of proper nutrition in early childhood. Their united front showcased the broad support for these initiatives and the urgent need for legislative action.
The advocacy efforts are a significant step forward in the push for better nutrition standards in early childhood education and care. As policymakers and stakeholders continue to work towards these goals, the aim is implementation of standards nationwide, ensuring all children have the best possible start in life.
You might ask, how does this relate to canteens in schools?
Parents, educators, and caregivers can play a crucial role by advocating for better quality foods not only early education settings but in primary and secondary schools too. Supporting initiatives that promote healthy eating habits for children in all educational settings is key to a better future.
