Service with a Heart
by Julie Poole, M. Ed., Connections Manager
At Novick, we love to share the love, so it should come as no surprise that Valentine’s Day is one of our favorite holidays to celebrate with clients.
This special day is widely celebrated in early childhood education programs because it focuses on love, friendship and inclusivity in a fun and developmentally appropriate way.
This February, we’re sharing our top tips to mix things up a bit, from swapping sugar-laden treats for wholesome and nutritious options, to including learning opportunities during snack time.
Check out our dietitian-approved snack suggestions paired with activity suggestions from our child care experts:
Chocolate Covered Berries
Dunk fresh strawberries in our Chocolate Hummus Cup for a protein-packed sweet treat!
Language and Literacy Learning Connection: Read a book about strawberries during snack time. Try Strawberries are Red, by Pete Horacek, or I Love You Strawberry Much, by Jerry Lott.
Heart-shaped Fruits and Veggies
Use heart-shaped cookie cutters on favorite fruits and veggies (we love cucumbers, pineapple, kiwi and melon) for a fun-snack
Fine Motor Learning Connection: Little hands will strengthen small muscles by pressing and cutting shapes.
Skip the conversation hearts and write message Clementines or Bananas instead
Social and Emotional Learning Connection: write the words “Love,” “Friend,” and “Sweet” on 4×6 note cards then encourage children to write these words on the fruit before sharing with a friend. Engage in conversation about feelings: How do you show someone you love them? What does it mean to be a friend?
Dip, Dip, Hooray: Heart-Shaped Pretzel Dippers
Pair our Whole Grain Heart-Shaped Pretzels with allergen-friendly chick pea butter cups.
Health and Nutrition Learning Connection: Dipping offers little ones a sensory experience that helps them to become more adventurous eaters. It’s a great opportunity for them to explore various colors, textures, and tastes of foods that they might not try otherwise.
