Food and Nutrition
For young children, the importance of eating well cannot be emphasised enough. The food habits that they develop can stay with them for years, so it’s important to introduce sound routines from the very beginning.
Nourishing Meals, Happy Moments
Our dedicated chefs create each meal with care, using local and organic ingredients for a balanced diet. We integrate herbs and produce cultivated by the children in our garden, fostering a connection to the food they eat. This encourages them to explore new flavours and textures, promoting healthy eating habits from a young age.
Recognising that every child is unique, we are dedicated to offering meals and snacks that cater to individual preferences and requirements. Our comprehensive approach includes a separate weaning menu designed for young babies, ensuring that they receive the nutrition they need during this critical stage of development.
View Our Seasonal Menus
Messy Learning, Healthy Futures
At Little Elms, mealtimes are more than nourishment—they’re joyful social occasions.
Our daily routine includes breakfast, lunch, and tea, complemented by two nutritious snacks throughout the day. With an emphasis on fresh fruits and vegetables, our menu ensures your child receives the essential nutrients they need. To keep your child hydrated, fresh drinking water is readily available at all times.
We understand that learning proper table manners and neat eating takes time, especially for the little ones. At Little Elms, we’re not afraid of a little mess! We encourage children to explore their meals and enjoy the experience of discovering new flavours. After all, creating positive associations with food is an essential step towards a lifetime of healthy eating habits.
Meet Our Chefs
Babis
Executive Chef
“I am originally from Greece, but have lived in England for more than 20 years. As a child I enjoyed cooking with my grandma and father, who were professional chefs. I have been working in the food industry for the last 16 years, starting my career in high end London hotels and restaurants. For the past decade I have specialised in the educational catering sector, an area that I find fulfilling and varied. I have an NVQ 1 & 2 in Professional Cookery.”
Billy
Head Chef
“I have worked in catering for more than 30 years, and have worked at Little Elms for the last 3 years as Head Chef at Beckenham. I cater for the Beckenham, Shirley and Sydenham nurseries. and I am thoroughly enjoying the experience. I have found working with children, learning their likes and dislikes, very rewarding, and as they are not afraid to give you their opinion when prompted, they make my job a lot easier!”
Learn More About Us
Learning
Our Nurseries
Across all 11 locations our nurseries offer state-of-the-art facilities, combining bright and spacious rooms indoors with fabulous outdoor areas.
