Nurseries and childminders to benefit from new Healthy Under 5s Framework

A new framework designed to help children under five develop healthy habits for life has been launched across Cornwall.

Cornwall Council is supporting nurseries, pre-schools, childminders and school reception classes through the introduction of the Healthy Under 5s Framework, which is now available to all Early Years settings.

The initiative provides training, practical resources and guidance to help settings create healthier environments and embed positive health and wellbeing practices into their everyday work.

The framework complements and enhances the national Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework, helping providers meet legal requirements relating to children's health and wellbeing.

Developed by Cornwall Council's Public Health team in collaboration with Early Years support services, the framework focuses on eight key areas:

• Food and nutrition
• Oral health
• Physical activity
• Sleep
• Emotional health and wellbeing
• Infection control, illness and accident prevention
• Community, environment and responsibility
• Toilet training

As part of the Healthy Under 5s programme, Early Years settings will also have access to regular updates, training opportunities and a range of support resources. Providers can join network meetings to share ideas and best practice, while also receiving tailored support based on their individual needs and priorities.

Councillor Hilary Frank, Cornwall Council's Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families, said: "Healthy habits learned in the earliest years can stay with children throughout their lives. This new Healthy Under 5s Framework will give our Early Years settings practical support to make those habits part of everyday life, helping to give every child the healthiest possible start."

Councillor Thalia Marrington, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Public Health, said the framework builds on the work already being carried out by providers across Cornwall.

She said: "Early Years providers play a vital role in supporting children's development, and this framework recognises the fantastic work already taking place across Cornwall.

"By bringing together guidance on key aspects of health and wellbeing, the Healthy Under 5s Framework will help settings build on best practice and ensure children have the foundations they need to thrive, both now and in the future."

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Early Years settings can access the full Healthy Under 5s Framework, guidance, training information and supporting resources through the Services for Schools Early Years platform.

Providers can also demonstrate their commitment to children's health and wellbeing by completing two simple steps to receive a Healthy Under 5s Pledge Certificate, which shows families, staff and visitors that they are actively using the framework to strengthen their approach to children's health and wellbeing.

The framework is also available to organisations, services and community groups that work with young children, with copies available on request from Cornwall Council.