New guidelines for nutrition have been launched by The School Food Trust, a charity which is working hard to reduce the rising levels of child obesity. The guidelines are for pre-school age children, and have been welcomed by Dr Caroline Gamlin, director of public health in Somerset.

The guidelines are aimed at childcare providers and are to be adopted on a voluntary basis. The new guide was launched after a report was released showing that children of pre-school age were being fed meals more suitable for adults. According to the report, more than 20 percent of UK children start school either overweight or obese. It also stated that most providers of childcare were doing a great job, but some didn’t fully understand the nutritional requirements of young children.

The website of the School Food Trust provides menu planners throughout the year, including breakfast, lunch, evening meal and some treats. Exercise is also highly recommended, with 180 minutes of activity each day for children under five years of age, mainly through play. Children aged five to 18 should try to get one hour activity every day.

Sarah Teather, children’s minister said:

Healthy eating is at the heart of helping every child get the best start in life. Parents rightly want their children to be eating healthy, nutritional food.

The menu suggestions for children are all simple to follow, and the portions are suitable for the child’s age. Combined with increased kid’s exercise, the levels of child obesity will hopefully be reduced.