Here’s a set of open-ended observation starters for mealtimes and nutrition, designed to support authentic child voice, trauma-informed practice, and emotionally intelligent documentation. These can be used across age groups and settings—from infants exploring textures to preschoolers engaging in cultural conversations around food.
Infants & Toddlers
- “The child reached toward the spoon and…”
- “They explored the texture of [food] by…”
- “The child vocalized when offered…”
- “They watched others eating and then…”
- “The child responded to the taste by…”
Reflection prompt: “What might this moment reveal about sensory preferences or emerging autonomy?”
Preschoolers
- “The child selected [food item] and said…”
- “They noticed the color/shape/smell of their meal and…”
- “The child asked, ‘What’s this?’ before…”
- “They shared a story about [food] from home: ‘My mum makes this when…’”
- “The child compared their plate with a peer’s and said…”
Reflection prompt: “How might this moment support cultural identity, curiosity, or social connection?”
Social & Emotional Aspects
- “The child offered [food] to a peer and said…”
- “They expressed preference by saying…”
- “The child declined [food] and explained…”
- “They smiled and said, ‘I love this!’ while…”
- “The child looked uncertain and asked…”
Reflection prompt: “What does this moment tell us about emotional safety, choice, or peer dynamics?”
Sustainability & Food Awareness
- “The child noticed food waste and said…”
- “They asked where [ingredient] comes from…”
- “The child said, ‘We grow this at home!’ while eating…”
- “They sorted scraps and said, ‘This goes in the bin because…’”
- “The child talked about animals or gardens while eating…”
Reflection prompt: “How might this moment support environmental awareness or food literacy?
Further Reading
Observation Starter Prompts
Writing Prompts and Phrases For Reports On Children
Writing Prompts For Evaluations, Reflections and Children
Summative Assessment Cheat Sheet For Educators
Quality Area 1 Cheat Sheet
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