Happy Lunchbox | Nutrition Program for Early Learning Services
Help children build confidence with healthy lunchboxes through a fun, hands-on learning experience.
Children join Milly the Koala as she prepares for her first day of school- exploring the five food groups and learning how food fuels their bodies for learning and play.
At a glance
Duration: 40 minutes
Group size: Up to 25 children a session
Age: 3-6 years (ideal for children preparing for school)
A fun, play-based introduction to healthy lunchboxes, helping children understand how to choose a variety of foods to support their energy, learning and wellbeing.
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Each child receives a Happy Lunchbox certificate
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Your service will receive a Certificate of Participation
Why this program works
A nutritious lunchbox is an important part of a child's ability to learn, concentrate and stay engaged throughout the day.
For many children, transitioning to eating from a lunchbox can feel unfamiliar. This program provides a positive and supportive introduction - helping children feel confident and prepared.
Research shows when children:
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Learn about food in a hands-on way
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Understand how food fuels their body
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Are involved in food choices
They are more likely to build healthy habits.
This program introduces the five food groups in a simple and engaging way- helping children understand how to create a balanced lunchbox.
What children experience
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Join Milly the Koala as she prepares for her first day of school
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Learn about the five food groups in a fun, interactive way
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Explore how food gives their bodies energy to learn and play
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Take part in a hands-on lunchbox building activity
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Discover how to create a balanced colourful lunchbox
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Build confidence with foods they will see at school
Take-home value for families
Children receive a take-home certificate with simple, visual guidance for families on how to pack a healthy lunchbox using the five food groups.
This helps extend learning beyond the session and supports families at home
Learning Outcomes
This program supports children to:
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Build confidence and independence
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Develop a sense of wellbeing
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Engage in collaborative learning
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Prepare for school routines
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Build awareness of healthy food choices
How the program helps
implement the NQF
This program directly relates to Standard 2.1
Health - Each child’s health and physical activity is
supported and promoted.
Element 2.1.3 states ‘Healthy eating and physical activity are promoted and appropriate for each child’
How the program helps implement the EYLF
EYLF Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity. Children will become more aware of healthy food choices and will experience pride, confidence and self-awareness.
EYLF Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing. This program encourages children to take increased responsibility for their own health and wellbeing.