Healthy Habits Start Early: How Milestones Supports Your Child’s Wellbeing

Health, Safety & Wellbeing at Milestones

Celebrating World Health Day – 7 April

At Milestones Early Learning, every day is an opportunity to support the health and wellbeing of the children in our care. This World Health Day (7 April), we’re highlighting the important role early childhood education plays in building healthy habits that last a lifetime.

From nutritious meals to daily outdoor play and emotional support, we take a whole-child approach to wellbeing - because when children feel well, they learn and thrive.

Building Healthy Habits from the Start

The early years are a critical time for developing lifelong habits. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, nearly one in four children aged 2–4 are overweight or obese, making early intervention more important than ever. By teaching children to enjoy healthy food, get regular exercise, and care for their emotional wellbeing, we’re setting them up for a bright future.

That’s why wellbeing is embedded into everything we do at Milestones - from the way we plan our curriculum, to the routines and rhythms of each day.

Nutrition That Fuels Growth

Mealtimes at Milestones are more than just delicious - they’re educational. Our qualified in-centre chefs prepare healthy, balanced meals using fresh ingredients, catering for all dietary needs and allergies.

We follow the Australian Dietary Guidelines to ensure children receive the nutrients they need for growth, development, and concentration. Children are encouraged to explore a variety of tastes and textures, develop independence at the table, and learn where food comes from.

Explore our Healthy Menu & Nutrition page to learn more about our seasonal menus, mealtime routines, and how we support children with allergies or preferences.

Did you know? Children who eat a healthy breakfast and lunch show better cognitive performance, memory, and focus throughout the day.

Nutrition That Fuels Growth

We know how important it is for young children to move their bodies and spend time in nature. Outdoor play isn’t just fun - it builds gross motor skills, confidence, and emotional regulation.

At Milestones, our purpose-built outdoor environments are designed to encourage movement, exploration, and creativity. Children enjoy activities like:

  • Climbing and balancing on natural play equipment
  • Gardening and caring for plants
  • Running, dancing, and yoga
  • Water and sand play
  • Nature scavenger hunts

According to The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, 83% of Australian children aged 0–5 don’t meet the recommended daily physical activity levels. We aim to change that by offering intentional movement experiences every day that align with our Lifelong Learning Curriculum.

Supporting Emotional and Social Wellbeing

Wellbeing isn’t just physical - it’s also about helping children feel safe, secure, and supported. Our educators build strong, nurturing relationships with every child and family, creating a sense of belonging and trust.

We support emotional wellbeing by:

  • Helping children name and understand their feelings
  • Modelling positive social interactions
  • Offering quiet spaces for self-regulation
  • Using storytelling and play to explore emotions
  • Practising gratitude, mindfulness, and kindness

These everyday experiences build the foundation for resilience, empathy, and self-awareness - skills that are just as important as ABCs and 123s.

A Whole-Child Approach to Health and Education

Our Lifelong Learning Curriculum focuses on the whole child - supporting physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Whether your child is a baby, toddler or preparing for school, every experience is designed to support their overall wellbeing.

From nourishing meals to play-based learning, outdoor adventures, and emotional support, we’re proud to be a place where children feel good inside and out.

Ready to Learn More?

If you're looking for a child care centre that prioritises your child’s health and happiness, Milestones is here for your family.

Find your nearest centre and book a tour today.