Kitchen and Dining at Olive Tree Academy Early Learning

 At Olive Tree, our in-house chef crafts delicious, healthy meals that kids love. Freshly prepared in our kitchen each day, our menu includes breakfast, lunch, and a variety of snacks.

We embrace family-style dining, where main dishes and sides are served in shared bowls at the table, encouraging children to serve themselves. This setup helps children build essential life skills, allowing them to make food choices independently and fostering a sense of pride and ownership over what they eat. They pour their own drinks and sometimes help serve their friends, promoting social interaction and improving fine motor skills.

Our teachers join the children at each table, modeling good table manners and engaging in friendly, positive conversations. This creates a comfortable, home-like setting where children learn by observing and interacting with others. Children learn to take turns, ask politely for items to be passed, and enjoy moments of laughter and bonding during meal times.

Eating as a group builds a supportive dining atmosphere, where children are encouraged to try new foods by seeing their peers and teachers enjoying them. Family-style meals also instill the joy of shared, nutritious eating and the value of connecting with others around the table. After meals, children help clear their plates and assist with cleanup—a simple task that reinforces their capability and responsibility. You can try this approach at home; you'll be amazed at how confidently your little ones rise to the occasion!