More information about the new spring and summer menus is available on the Partou website

PARTOU, 1 of the UK's largest day nursery providers which operates settings across the North West including Partou Curiosity Corner in Southport, has launched its spring and summer menus created in partnership with leading children's food consultant and nutritionist Laura Matthews.

Laura has a wealth of early years and family nutrition experience having worked with heavyweight brands including:- the Jamie Oliver Food Group and Cook.

Each weekly menu has been carefully crafted to offer:- nourishing, balanced meals that promote children's development and foster healthy eating habits.

There is a strong focus on:- whole foods and a variety of protein, dairy, fruits, vegetables and side dishes.

Many of the new dishes have been given novel names such as:- Cheesy Cowboy Bean Bake, Magic Bean Spaghetti and Yummy Tummy Chicken Wraps, adding to the fun at mealtimes.

The menus; which will be rotated on a 3 week cycle; reflect a balance of the key food groups needed by children in early years and incorporate differing textures and flavours to expand their palates.

There are also special weaning menus for younger children which will be similarly served on a rotating basis.

Samantha Rhodes, Partou Managing Director, said:- "Our nursery food team and chefs have really enjoyed working with Laura to develop our spring and summer menus. Each individual meal is not only nutritious and delicious but also supports the wellbeing of every child. Laura's professional focus is on nourishing little tummies with food that's fun, balanced and backed by expertise. We know our menus are in the best hands."

Laura Matthews said:- "It's been a real pleasure to create the new spring / summer menus for Partou. With Partou nurseries serving thousands of children every day, their food offering has the potential to positively shape children's diets and help build healthy habits that last a lifetime."

Liverpool to get Smoke and Vape Free Play Areas for Children

CHIKSREN and young people in Liverpool are taking a stand for their health with a clear message:- "Don't smoke or vape in our play areas!"

As part of Liverpool's Smokefree Play Areas initiative, new smoke and vape free signs are being installed in 60 parks across the City.

The new standout design, created by Abbie Grace Breen, a year 5 pupil, at Emmaus Primary School, Croxteth, was selected from over 240 entries and boldly states:- "Don't smoke or vape in our park, we like to play in clear air!"

9 year old Abbie Grace Breen said:- "Me and my friends don't like seeing adults smoking or vaping in playgrounds it's meant to be a fun place just for kids. Someone might be smoking or vaping, and we could just be playing, and it will make us really sick I'm really happy that my drawing was chosen for the signs, and I hope it helps remind people to keep our play areas smoke and vape free!"

Originally launched in 2013, the Smokefree Play Areas initiative was introduced to prevent smoking in spaces where children play, supporting their wellbeing and encouraging healthier lifestyles from a young age.

Now, with growing concerns about vaping around young people, it is being expanded to include:- e-cigarettes, ensuring that playgrounds remain free from both smoke and vape exposure.

Studies show that children raised in environments where smoking is normalised are 3 times more likely to take up the habit themselves.

Liverpool City Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture Councillor Harry Doyle, said:- "Creating smoke and vape free play areas is about protecting the health and wellbeing of our children. No child should have to breathe in 2nd hand smoke or be exposed to vaping while they play. By expanding this initiative, alongside the recent ban on disposable vapes, we are taking meaningful action to reduce waste, reduce vaping amongst young people, and ensure that playgrounds are safe, healthy environments for children to enjoy. This is an important step in fostering a cleaner, healthier Liverpool for future generations."

As part of the City's wider Tobacco Control Strategy, this initiative not only creates a healthier environment for children but also plays a crucial role in reducing smoking and vaping in front of young people, making it less likely that they will pick up the habit.

The inclusion of vapes in this initiative follows the ban on disposable vapes, introduced just yesterday to help reduce waste and tackle the sharp rise in vaping among young people.

For support to quit smoking contact Smokefree Liverpool call:- 01513742535, Text:- 'QUIT1' to:- 61825, or visit:- SmokeFreeLiverpool.Co.UK.

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