At preschool, snack time isn’t just about refueling little bodies — it’s a special moment filled with learning and connection. One of the most delightful aspects of shared snack time at the Co-op is the opportunity for mindful eating, which offers numerous benefits for young children.
Encouraging Mindful Eating
Mindful eating involves paying full attention to the experience of eating, noticing the colors, textures, and flavors of food. During shared snack time, children can practice this by focusing on each bite, savoring their snacks, and discussing what they taste. This awareness helps them develop a healthy relationship with food and encourages them to try new things.
Exploring Food Together
Snack time also serves as an opportunity for preschoolers to learn about food. We have a partnership with Gene’s Greens CSA, where we get fresh, locally grown seasonal produce. The connection to local farmers cultivates an appreciation for where food comes from, laying the groundwork for lifelong healthy habits.
All snacks at the Co-op are meat-free, dairy-free, and nut-free, with the exception of milk, which is always offered. Throughout the year, children will encounter new and familiar fruits, vegetables, and snacks, discussing their benefits and encouraging curiosity. This interactive approach makes nutrition fun and engaging!
Building Social Skills
Sharing snacks creates a communal atmosphere where children learn to engage with one another and foster social skills. They practice taking turns, sharing, and communicating about their food preferences. When the Snack Parent for that day offers a food (“Would you like to try some carrots?”), children have the opportunity to practice saying “please” and “thank you,” and, of course, “no thank you.”
When children participate in preparing or serving snacks, they learn valuable lessons about responsibility and teamwork. Whether chopping an apple, setting the table or cleaning up afterward, these tasks foster a sense of accomplishment and pride in contributing to the group.
Shared snack time not only nourishes little bodies but also nurtures their minds and social skills. By embracing mindful eating, we create an enriching experience that promotes healthy habits and strengthens community bonds. Let’s celebrate the joy of sharing snacks together!