As parents, we think a lot about what our children eat, especially when they’re spending their day learning, exploring and growing in an early learning environment. We want food that feels thoughtful. Food that’s made with care. Food that supports their little bodies and minds through every milestone.
That’s why Papilio’s Seasonal Healthy Menu is something we take great pride in. And this summer, we’re delighted to introduce a menu that is vibrant, nourishing, and created with genuine intention.
Designed to Nourish Curious Minds
Our summer menu is refreshed each season to make the most of fresh, colourful ingredients - the foods that children naturally gravitate toward. Every day, children enjoy:
-
A balanced breakfast
-
Morning tea
-
A wholesome, nutritious lunch
-
Afternoon tea
-
Plenty of water
We know that children receive around half of their daily nutritional requirements while in care, so it’s important their meals offer the nutrients that matter most: iron for brain development, whole grains for sustained energy, protein for growth, and a rainbow of fruits and vegetables for vitamins, fibre and immune support.
At Papilio, this isn’t an afterthought, it’s woven into every recipe.
Created With Leading Early Childhood Dietitians
This season, our menu has been thoughtfully designed in partnership with The Biting Truth, Accredited Practising Dietitians with more than a decade of experience supporting early learning services. Their expertise ensures our meals are both nutritionally balanced and genuinely enjoyable for children.
Together, we’ve crafted a menu that features:
-
Iron-rich options to support healthy growth
-
Balanced vegetarian meals
-
Gentle flavours inspired by global cuisines
-
Fresh fruits and vegetables across every meal
-
Textures and ingredients tailored to young eaters
-
Afternoon teas that feel wholesome and fun
A Taste of Summer (Without Listing Every Dish)
You’ll see the difference in the variety of meals presented each week - vibrant colours, fresh produce, and dishes that feel both comforting and adventurous in just the right measure.
One day it might be a mild noodle bowl filled with fresh vegetables, the next a beautifully balanced pasta or a colourful, crunchy tasting plate.
See Week 1 of the Summer Menu here.
Each recipe has been created with children in mind: flavours they’ll enjoy, nutrients they need, and opportunities to explore food in a relaxed, supportive environment.
At home, I often hear, “We had this at daycare!”, and there’s something incredibly reassuring about knowing your child is trying new foods with confidence and joy.
Where Food Becomes Part of the Learning
At Papilio, mealtimes are an extension of our learning philosophy. Children are encouraged to explore, serve themselves with child-friendly utensils, talk about what they see and taste, and build a positive relationship with food that lasts well beyond the early years.
It’s about nourishment, independence, confidence and connection, all happening naturally around the table.
Experience Our Summer Menu at a Papilio Centre Near You
If your child is already enrolled, your Centre Manager or cook can share more about your centre’s weekly rotations.
If you’re beginning your childcare search, our team would love to show you how we approach nutrition, care and education at Papilio.