TOP Star Child Care

Why childcare matters

Childcare facilities are a key part of this social environment because children spend so much time in these settings. For example, some children get 50% to 75% of their daily calories from the food at a childcare center. This directly impacts their access to nutritious foods that are crucial for body and brain development. A childcare facility is an excellent place to improve a child’s lifelong health through positively influencing their social environment and teaching them healthy habits.

The benefits of healthy habits for children

Building strong minds, bodies, and futures—for every child.

Healthy habits are essential for all children to grow and thrive, regardless of their body shape or size. Here is how nutritious food and regular play support their development:

• Fuel for Growth: Nutritious foods deliver the essential building blocks for strong bones, muscles, blood, and brain development.
• Lifelong Strength: Physical activity strengthens the lungs and bones, meeting crucial developmental milestones and preventing long-term conditions like osteoporosis.
• Happier Minds: Healthy eating and active play are proven to boost mood, enhance mental well-being, and reduce stress.
• Social Skills: Sharing mealtimes and playing with peers helps children build vital social connections and teamwork skills.
• Future Prevention: Establishing these habits early can prevent or even reverse childhood risk factors for long-term health conditions like heart disease.