At Shining Stars, we believe that what we put into our bodies and minds affects who we are and what we become. As this relates to nutrition, we strive to provide our children with healthy, whole and non-processed foods during our meals and snacks and serve them in BPA-free containers.

Shining Stars maximizes healthy whole foods.

Whole foods are rich in phytochemicals—powerful nutrients found in plant foods. Compared with processed foods, whole foods contain more vitamins and minerals. More fiber and beneficial fats are found in whole foods. The combinations of nutrients in whole plant foods act synergistically to protect us from disease. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole eggs, chicken and soups are key staples to our meals and snacks here at Shining Stars.

Shining Stars minimizes processed foods.

The importance of providing healthy foods and practicing good nutrition cannot be overstated. According to an article published by NaturalSociety.com, British researchers uncovered a connection between processed foods and reduced IQ. They followed 14,000 children between the ages of 3 and 8.5 years old and found that if children were consuming a processed diet at age3, IQ decline could begin over the next five years and that by age 8, the children had suffered IQ decline. Conversely, children who ate a nutrient-rich diet were found to have improved IQ. Again, Shining Stars maximizes healthy whole foods and minimizes processed foods.

Shining Stars accommodates special needs/allergic diets.

Shining Stars understands the importance of special needs/allergic diets such as gluten-free and/or casein-free and works with parents to accommodate their children through substitution. For instance, instead of the Wheaties and milk, a gluten-free/casein-free substitute would be Rice Krispies and Rice or Almond milk. Parents, if you are aware of your child having food allergies, please set up a time for consultation with our staff so that we can ensure your child’s dietary needs are satisfied.

Shining Stars minimizes BPA exposure.

Shining Stars recently imported BPA-free utensils, plates, cups and bowls so as to minimize the negative effects of BPA and allow our young stars to shine their brightest. We believe this is a huge positive development for our children.

Many plastics contain a chemical called bisphenol-A (BPA). According to a study conducted by scientists from Duke University, BPA can damage and corrupt neural circuits and compromise normal brain development which can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders. These disorders may include autism spectrum disorders which have increased tremendously during the past decade as well as ADD and ADHD. To emphasize, Shining Stars minimizes BPA exposure to our children through the use of BPA-free utensils, plates, cups and bowls.

Shining Stars does not knowingly serve food with Monosodium Glutamate (MSG).

There have been numerous studies showing the ill-effects of MSG. MSG is an addictive substance that is classified as an excitotoxin that overstimulates cells and can lead to obesity, inflammation, and brain damage. Unfortunately, MSG is hidden in a lot of foods and is sometimes not labelled properly. That is why we say that we do not knowingly serve food with MSG in it and that is a big reason that Shining Stars seeks to serve children whole foods. Whole foods do not contain MSG.

Shining Stars serves healthy, great tasting water to keep your child healthy.

The water that we serve at Shining Stars goes through a four stage filtration and remineralization process before it is given to the children to drink. The first stage filter removes chlorine and other contaminants. The next two filters remineralize the water by adding back calcium, magnesium and trace minerals thus making it healthy water. Finally, a sediment filter then captures any solid deposits such as sand. The result is clean, good tasting and healthy water that will keep your children refreshed and hydrated throughout the day.