At Whitehall Early Learning in Footscray, we believe good food is a cornerstone of a happy, healthy childhood — fuelling growing bodies today and building healthy eating habits for life. That’s why every meal we serve is designed and approved by independent dietitians, and planned around the Australian Dietary Guidelines. Here’s exactly what that means for your child.
Every menu is dietitian-approved
Our seasonal menus are created and assessed by independent dietitians. They’re reviewed against the Australian Dietary Guidelines, the Government’s “Get Up & Grow” framework and the National Quality Standard — so you can be confident your child is eating meals that meet the highest standards, not just what’s quick or convenient.
All five food groups, every day
Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea together provide at least half of a child’s recommended daily nutrition. Our menu is planned to deliver the right number of serves from all five food groups every day — vegetables and legumes, fruit, wholegrains, dairy, and proteins. Together these provide the nutrients growing children need: protein for strong muscles and development, iron for energy and healthy brain development, calcium for growing bones and teeth, and a wide range of vitamins and minerals to support immunity, growth and overall wellbeing.
Wholesome, balanced and freshly made
Meals are made fresh and packed with vegetables, wholegrains, and a variety of proteins — from legumes and tofu to dairy like cheese, ricotta and yoghurt. Think veggie-loaded lentil and quinoa shepherd’s pie, chickpea and broccoli stew, wholemeal ricotta & banana pancakes, cheesy sweet potato and spinach slice, and fresh fruit with yoghurt. Our menus rotate with the seasons — a warming Autumn/Winter menu and a fresh Spring/Summer one — so meals stay varied and interesting all year.
Low in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats
We keep added sugar, salt and saturated fat to a minimum, use healthier oils, and skip fried and discretionary foods. Water and milk are the only drinks, freely available throughout the day — with no soft drinks, cordials or sweetened juices. It’s the kind of everyday eating that quietly builds strong, healthy habits.
Made for every age and stage
From our youngest babies to our preschoolers, there’s a menu to match. Infants under 12 months are supported with breast milk or formula, and from around six months we offer a dedicated puree menu — mashed banana and oat, pureed lentils with sweet potato, carrot and chickpea. Older children enjoy the full menu, and a late snack is always available for those in longer days.
Allergy-aware and inclusive
Every child deserves to enjoy mealtimes safely. We’re allergy-aware and cater for allergies and intolerances — including milk, wheat, soy and fish — with suitable, nutritious alternatives, and we happily accommodate family and cultural food preferences. No child misses out.
Food safety you can trust
Behind every meal is a documented Food Safety Program and strict hygiene standards. Our team follows safe food handling, preparation and storage practices every day, so the food your child eats is not only nutritious but prepared with the greatest care.
At Whitehall Early Learning Centre, dietitian-approved meals are just one part of our nurturing childcare in Footscray, where we care for children from 6 weeks to 6 years. We’d love to show you around.
Come and see it for yourself
The best way to experience our food is to visit. Book a tour of Whitehall Early Learning in Footscray — we’d love to show you our menus and the happy mealtimes that go with them.