Healthy Habits Start Small: A Nanny’s Role in Children’s Nutrition

Preparing Nutritious Meals & Snacks

• Cook balanced meals that include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein.
• Offer healthy snacks (fruit, yogurt, nuts if age-appropriate) instead of sugary or processed foods.
• Follow family preferences, cultural foods, and any allergies or dietary needs.

Creating Healthy Routines

• Serve meals and snacks at consistent times to help children recognise hunger and fullness.
• Encourage sitting at the table without screens during meals.
• Help establish regular hydration habits (drinking water throughout the day).

Teaching Children About Food

• Talk with children about where food comes from and why it helps their bodies grow and have energy
• Involve children in simple meal prep, like washing vegetables or stirring ingredients
• Encourage trying new foods without pressure (“one bite rule” or gentle exposure)

Modelling Healthy Behaviour

• Eat healthy foods alongside the children
• Show positive attitudes toward food (no labelling foods as “bad”)
• Demonstrate mindful eating and listening to hunger cues

Encouraging Independence & Confidence

• Teach age-appropriate skills like using utensils or serving themselves
• Praise effort and curiosity rather than focusing on how much a child eats
• Help children build a healthy relationship with food, not just “clean plates”

Maintaining a Safe & Positive Environment

• Ensure food is prepared and stored safely.
• Be mindful of choking hazards for younger children.
• Avoid using food as a reward or punishment

Healthy Habits with The Yorkshire Nanny Company

Above all a nanny is there to support parent’s goals.
Nannies should:

• Follow the family’s nutrition guidelines and communicate about what children eat each day
• Help plan grocery lists or suggest healthy meal ideas (if part of the role).
• Respect parents’ choices around treats, special diets, or feeding styles.