The child-centred, informal atmosphere that should exist throughout the day in an early years setting should also continue at mealtimes. Although dinner time (especially) necessarily involves adult timetables and other constraints, such pressures should not be apparent to the children. Of course, dinner time has its own special routine, but from a child's point of view, it should appear as just another enjoyable event in their day.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, children have been found to thrive noticeably better when they eat regularly in a happy atmosphere. If mealtimes are to be enjoyable, there are various aspects to consider apart from the actual quality and taste of the food.
An inviting dining area
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