Food & Nutrition
Montessori Food Preparation
Nutritious food is essential for fostering children’s health, well-being, and early learning. That’s why our campus meals are thoughtfully designed to support young bodies and promote lifelong healthy eating habits.
With a strong focus on child-centred food preparation, children at Inspire ELH actively engage in food-related activities that enhance their independence, decision-making skills, and curiosity about nutrition. Our meals are crafted daily by qualified onsite chefs using fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring every child is supported in their growth and development.
Nurturing Healthy Eating at Inspire ELJ
“We give the child nourishing food so that their little body may grow, and in just the same way, we must provide them with suitable nourishment for mental and moral growth.” – Maria Montessori
At Inspire ELJ, we create a positive relationship between children and food.
Our meals focus on whole foods, eliminating refined sugars and processed products, ensuring balanced nourishment for growing minds and bodies.
We believe food preparation is a valuable learning opportunity.
Children participate in mealtimes by setting the table, serving themselves, and exploring new foods. Our educators foster a calm and supportive environment, encouraging children to explore new textures and flavours at their own pace.
Balanced Montessori Meals at Inspire Early Learning
Our onsite chefs prepare daily meals using locally sourced, seasonal produce, reflecting diverse cultures and catering to each child’s dietary requirements, family beliefs, and preferences.
Children are engaged in every stage of food preparation, from planting and harvesting herbs in our sustainability gardens to simple cooking activities. These experiences empower them to understand the origins of food and make healthy choices.
To ensure safety and inclusion, all Inspire ELJ campuses are nut- and egg-free environments, and we provide alternatives to meet dietary needs.
The Importance of Nutritious Montessori Meals
Healthy, balanced meals are essential for children’s physical, cognitive, and social development. At Inspire ELJ, our menus align with the Montessori philosophy, using mealtimes as opportunities for independence, social connection, and self-paced learning.
Our chefs prepare all food onsite, following strict dietary guidelines to protect children with allergies or intolerances. We provide dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian options and milk alternatives like soy, oat, and coconut.
Healthy Meals Available in All Our Childcare Campuses
Our Montessori meals program is available at all campuses across Melbourne. Children at every Inspire ELJ location experience enriching and healthy mealtimes during their early learning journey. Find your nearest childcare centre in Melbourne.
Dietary Requirements
We recognise that many children have specific dietary needs. Our chefs prepare meals with these requirements in mind, offering alternatives for common allergens such as dairy and gluten while ensuring that all meals are nut-free and egg-free. This careful attention ensures every child’s needs are met, providing parents peace of mind.
The Fussy Eaters
We understand that some children are selective eaters, especially when trying new foods. Our menus introduce various flavours and textures, gently encouraging children to explore and discover foods they enjoy at their own pace. Even the fussiest eaters can find something to love at mealtime with patience and support.
Enroll with Inspire Early Learning Journey
At Inspire ELJ, we prioritise nutritious, balanced meals that cultivate children’s love for healthy eating. Visit one of our campuses to see how we support creativity, independence, and personal growth during mealtimes.
Explore our facilities or book a tour to learn more about our services.
