Nutritionally Certified Menus

At the University Child Care Centre Society (UCCCS), we recognize that nutrition is a vital component of early childhood development. Our Nutritionally Certified Menu is designed to provide balanced, high-quality meals that support children's growth, learning, and well-being.

• Nutritious, Balanced Meals – Our menus follow Canada’s Food Guide and UCCCS Healthy Eating Guidelines, ensuring children receive fresh, nutrient-rich meals that promote healthy development.
• Two Meal Options – Families can choose between our regular menu or a vegetarian menu, both carefully crafted to meet nutritional standards.
• Three Meals Daily, Made On-Site – Our experienced cooks prepare a homemade hot lunch, morning snack, and afternoon snack using high-quality, wholesome ingredients.
• Culturally Inclusive & Allergy-Friendly – We accommodate a variety of dietary needs, ensuring meals are balanced and safe for children with allergies or restrictions.
• Family-Style Dining – Children engage in self-serving, conversation, and shared mealtime experiences, fostering social skills, independence, and positive eating habits.
• Supports Early Learning & Development – Research highlights the critical role of nutrition in cognitive function, emotional well-being, and physical health, helping children thrive in their early years.

Proper nutrition is essential for young children's growth, brain development, and learning success. Research shows that well-balanced meals in early childhood settings contribute to:

• Cognitive Development – Proper nutrition supports memory, attention span, and overall brain function, laying a strong foundation for academic success.
• Physical Growth & Health – Nutrient-dense meals help prevent childhood obesity, strengthen the immune system, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Social & Emotional Well-Being – Family-style dining promotes social skills, self-regulation, and positive mealtime habits that extend into adulthood.
• Lifelong Healthy Eating Habits – Exposure to a variety of fresh, diverse, and culturally inclusive foods helps children develop a love for nutritious eating early on.

For families interested in learning more about the connection between nutrition and early childhood well-being, the following resources offer valuable insights:

• Canada’s Food Guide – Guidelines on balanced meals and portion sizes for young children.
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC) – Early Childhood Nutrition – Information on how diet influences child development.
• Harvard Center on the Developing Child – Research on how nutrition affects brain development and lifelong health.
• Alberta Health Services – Healthy Eating for Children –  Practical tips for parents and caregivers on childhood nutrition.

At UCCCS, we are committed to providing high-quality meals that support children's health, learning, and well-being. Our food program plays an integral role in fostering a nurturing and enriching early learning environment.