At Sorrel and Cedar, health is understood as something that is shaped over time through environment, relationships, routines, and daily care practices.
We take a preventative, whole-child approach to well-being. This includes nourishment, time outdoors, emotional safety, and thoughtful health practices that support children’s developing bodies and immune systems.
Rather than responding only when children are unwell, we focus on creating conditions that support resilience, regulation, and long-term wellness.
A Whole-Child Approach to Health
Children’s health is influenced by many interconnected factors. At Sorrel and Cedar, we intentionally support well-being through:
- Consistent daily rhythms that support nervous system regulation
- Strong relationships and responsive caregiving
- Time spent outdoors in diverse natural environments
- Nourishing food and unhurried mealtimes
- Health practices grounded in care
We recognize that children thrive when their bodies feel safe, their needs are met with respect, and their environments support growth rather than stress.
Nourishment as One Part of Well-Being
Food is an important part of health, but it is not treated in isolation.
We serve vegetarian meals and snacks that are familiar, nourishing, and supportive of children’s energy needs throughout the day. Meals are planned with whole foods, seasonal produce when possible, and simple preparations that allow children to recognize and trust what they are eating.
Our weekly lunch rhythm often includes:
- Oven-baked vegetarian mains
- Pasta dishes with vegetables
- Soups and stews with bread
- Grain and legume-based meals
- Gentle spices and comforting flavours
Snacks rotate and may include:
- Fresh fruit and vegetables
- Cheese or yogurt
- Whole-grain crackers or toast
- Dips such as hummus
- Milk or milk alternatives
Children are not pressured to eat. We trust children’s internal cues and support them through routine, modelling, and calm encouragement rather than control.
Mealtimes as Regulation and Connection
Mealtimes are intentionally slow and relational.
Children are invited to participate in setting up, serving, pouring, and cleaning up in developmentally appropriate ways. These shared moments support:
- Belonging and community
- Body awareness and autonomy
- Language development
- Emotional regulation
Food is never used as a reward or a consequence. Children are free to explore, taste, or decline foods, knowing they will be offered again in a predictable and supportive way.
Environment as Preventive Care
Time outdoors is a cornerstone of our health practices.
Children spend extended periods outside each day, engaging with natural materials, varied terrain, fresh air, and seasonal changes. These experiences support physical development, immune health, sensory integration, and emotional regulation.
Outdoor play is not viewed as a break from learning or care, but as a vital part of children’s well-being.
Thoughtful Health Practices
Health routines at Sorrel and Cedar are calm, consistent, and developmentally appropriate.
Practices such as handwashing, illness prevention, and rest are approached through repetition, modelling, and clear communication rather than urgency or fear. This helps children build habits and understanding while maintaining a sense of safety.
We aim to reduce unnecessary stress on children’s bodies and nervous systems while still maintaining responsible health standards in a group care setting.
Emotional Well-Being and Regulation
Emotional health is inextricably linked to physical health.
Children are supported through co-regulation, predictable routines, and respectful responses to big feelings. We understand that stress, transitions, and unmet needs can impact children’s bodies just as much as illness.
Care is guided by observation, relationship, and responsiveness rather than rigid expectations.
Allergies, Health Needs, and Communication
We work closely with families to support allergies, sensitivities, and individual health needs. Care practices and menus may be adapted to meet the needs of the children enrolled.
Ongoing communication helps ensure care remains safe, inclusive, and responsive.
A Culture of Care
Our goal is not to eliminate risk or control children’s bodies, but to create an environment where health is supported through connection, environment, nourishment, and trust.
If you have questions about our approach to health, well-being, or care practices, we’re always happy to talk.
Sorrel and Cedar ELC 