A Look into Lunch Time

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Between 11:15-12:00 we have lunch time! Both Dragonfly and Butterfly Groups come together to refuel, take a break, and replenish our bodies. It's also a time to socialize with peers and reflect on our day so far. Meal times at school might look different than at home in a few ways. The children are expected to remove their lunches from their cubbies, choose a place to sit with friends, open their lunch box, and select foods from their lunch to eat independently. The teachers are always around to help with packages, tupperware, straws, and bottles, but we always encourage independent self help skills, like using utensils, wiping with a napkin, and throwing away your garbage on your own. As the children learn the routine, they are more excited to do these "big kid" skills without help! Some of our favorite words to hear at school are, "I did it all by myself!" 

Lunch time is also an excellent time to talk about what our bodies feel like when we are hungry or full. When we don't eat, we can feel cranky or tired. When we have enough to eat and drink, we feel calm and satisfied! These are great ways for children to take notice and care of their own developing bodies. All children have different eating habits as well. Some can finish their entire lunch in a few minutes, while others need extra time to get through it. As they socialize with friends, the children often express what they have in their lunch that is the same or different: "I have that food at my home!" or "I've never eaten that before." We encourage open conversation about what makes us different and the same, while always respecting each other's preferences. 

After lunch, the children either go home for the day, or get ready for Quiet Rest Time. The children must then put away their lunches, visit the potty, and get ready for bed. Now that we are a few months into school, they know this routine very well. 

Please see some photos below of what lunch normally looks like! We have all of our meals outside, but during a very hot, cold, or rainy day, we will eat in the classroom.