Pinvin Community Preschool
Children's Health
Children's Health
Healthy Lifestyles
Healthy Lifestyles
At Pinvin Community Pre-school we promote healthy lifestyles through the activities and experiences we offer. From healthy eating, a provision rich in physical development and a focus on children's mental health and well-being we are teaching children life skills and preparing them to lead fulfilling, happy lives.
Government recommends that all children from birth to 5 years old should have 180 minutes of physical activity everyday. We believe we meet this on a daily basis, but how are you doing at home?


The Importance of a Healthy Diet
The Importance of a Healthy Diet
Good nutrition in the early years sets the foundation for future health and well-being. It can also positively influence; concentration, physical development, behaviour, cognitive development and long-term future health. We provide nutritionally sound meals and snacks which promote health and reduce the risk of obesity and heart disease that may begin in childhood.
A fruit snack and milk is offered every morning and hot meals are supplied from local company The Deli @ Pershore, ordered via the preschool at a cost of £2.30 per meal.
Parental advice on providing a well balanced diet
Parental advice on providing a well balanced diet
Children need regular meals and snacks to get the energy (calories) and goodness or ‘nutrients’ they need for growing and fighting off illness. A healthy balanced diet for children aged one to four years is based on the four food groups listed below, which provide a range of essential nutrients that children need to grow and develop.
- Potatoes, bread, rice, pasta and other starchy carbohydrates
- Fruit and vegetables
- Beans, pulses, fish, eggs, meat and other proteins
- Dairy and alternatives
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Children who have breakfast have been shown to concentrate better throughout the morning.
Portion sizes
Portion sizes
Almost a quarter of children are classed as overweight or obese on entry to school, with this rising to one in three at year 6. Providing larger portion sizes than children need can encourage overeating and may be one of the contributing factors to childhood obesity.
Having water available throughout the day doesn't just keep children hydrated but also can prevent overeating as often we may think we are hungry but are indeed thirsty.
Valuing meal times
Valuing meal times
Eating family meals together helps encourage children to enjoy a variety of foods and to spend time with the family. It is a good idea to eat together as a family at the table and not alongside other activities, for example watching the TV, to prevent distractions.
At Pinvin Community Preschool, meal and snack times are a valued part of our day. We come together to appreciate food, and each others company. Adults sit with the children and teach good manners and support the use of cutlery. Children self serve food and are independent in clearing their plates at the end of lunch. This is a communication rich time and a very special part of our day.


Dental Hygeine
Dental Hygeine
Tooth decay in children is now considered to be the most common childhood disease. Tooth decay is damage to a tooth caused by dental plaque which turns sugars into acid. Increased levels of plaque can lead to issues such as cavities and gum disease. Oral diseases are preventable by following these interventions:
- Brush teeth with fluoride toothpaste last thing before bed and at one other time.
- Visit the dentist regularly
- Reduce the amount and frequency of sugary foods and drinks
To support good dental hygiene we are now requesting parents no longer bring in cakes and treats for birthday celebrations. If you do however wish to bring anything in to celebrate, the children do love a birthday sticker!
Toileting
Toileting
Toileting can be a very challenging part of child development and requires patience and understanding. Children are able to control their bladder and bowels when they're physically ready and when they want to be dry and clean. Every child is different, so it's best not to compare your child with others. Eric is a children's bowel and bladder charity who offer advice on all things toileting. Below is some information to help you and your child on this journey, more information can be found on their website.
Child illnesses and immunisations
Child illnesses and immunisations
All children get poorly from time to time, their innate need to explore exposes them to germs which can lead to viral or bacterial infections. Winter months can see an increase in illness as the weather turns colder and we spend longer periods of time inside.
If your child becomes unwell we ask that you share this with us. It may be your child will need some extra cuddles or may have to remain at home until their better. Please see below for advice.

Handwashing - A life skill
Handwashing - A life skill
One of the most effective ways to prevent infection is through good hand and respiratory hygiene. As Early years educators we take pride in teaching children how to wash their hands effectively and to follow the catch it, bin it, kill it campaign.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy
Pregnancy can be a very emotional time, feelings of joy and worry equally intertwined. This guide includes all you need to know about trying for a baby, pregnancy, labour and birth.

Nits
Nits
Head lice and nits are very common in young children and their families. They do not have anything to do with dirty hair and are picked up by head-to-head contact. Lice and nits can be removed by wet combing. You should try this method first, before buying expensive treatments. You can buy a special fine-toothed comb online or from pharmacies to remove head lice and nits. Our advice is to condition hair and comb through everyday until clear. If you require support with this please speak with your keyperson.
Your child need not be excluded for nits however we do ask that parents speak with us so we can support.