This workshop provides educators with practical, regulation-aligned guidance on supporting children’s nutrition, health, and safety during mealtimes in accordance with the Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA). Participants develop a clear understanding of their responsibilities in promoting healthy eating habits, supervising meals, preventing choking, and responding appropriately to allergies, medical conditions, and individualized support needs.

The workshop emphasizes active meal supervision, safe food service practices, and unacceptable practices that compromise children’s health or dignity. Educators learn how to role model positive eating behaviours, encourage self-feeding, and respond appropriately when children refuse food, while ensuring nutritional adequacy and equity.

A significant focus is placed on individualized plans, including:

• Allergy Plans
• Individualized Anaphylactic Plans (IAPs)
• Individualized Medical Plans (IMPs)
• Individualized Support Plans (ISPs)

Participants review how to identify, access, and follow these plans, recognize symptoms, administer medication safely, and respond to emergencies in compliance with legislative and organizational policies. Realistic scenarios are used throughout the workshop to strengthen decision-making skills and clarify expectations around prohibited practices.

By the end of the workshop, educators leave with increased confidence in:

• Creating safe, inclusive, and supportive mealtime environments
• Preventing choking and responding to allergic reactions
• Implementing individualized plans with consistency and professionalism
• Meeting CCEYA requirements while supporting children’s health, development, and well-being