Nar Nar Goon Kindergarten joined the Achievement Program in 2013 and recently received recognition for Healthy Eating and Oral Health priority. They joined the program because they believe that the health and wellbeing of children, their families, staff and community, strongly contributes to a child's ability to achieve their full potential.
The healthy eating message begins when a child joins the kinder and receives a copy of “This is my kinder” booklet. The booklet uses illustrations to show children the healthy activities they will experience during a normal day at the kindergarten. These messages are supported and communicated to families via posters, the kindergarten newsletter and on Facebook. It is also communicated widely to the broader community via newsletters and community social media pages.
Innovative activities are organised within the kindergarten to communicate the benefits of healthy eating and oral health. It has reintroduced communal snacks consisting of healthy foods which are made with and shared by the children. Healthy food sorting activities are conducted to help children learn about healthy eating options. Regular dental visits are also organised to raise awareness about oral health.
The team at Nar Nar Goon Kindergarten have shared their top tips to achieve recognition for this health priority:
- Take your time to develop your goals so they can be embedded into your curriculum and philosophy, not just in a “done and dusted approach”
- Utilise the knowledge and skills of the local Health Professional. They can help develop goals, provide information and guide you through the program requirements. (You can check with the Achievement Program team on 1300 721 682 to see if there is support in your area.)
- Develop strong ties with families as they are crucial in contributing to the success of the program. Nar Nar Goon Kindergarten has a strong, supportive and engaged Parent Advisory Group who supports them in making changes which contribute to improved health outcomes for the children
- Get your staff involved as the health and wellbeing of your educators is just as important as that of the families and children as they all form part of our local community
Nar Nar Goon Kindergarten has also been recognised for Physical Activity and Sun Protection. Nar Nar Goon Kindergarten is part of the Kinders Together Early Years Management group.