A colourful new animal-themed children’s menu has been launched on our children’s wards.

It gives poorly youngsters the chance to choose their own breakfast, lunch and dinner when staying on the children’s ward at both our hospitals.

The yummy meals include shepherd’s pie, breaded haddock and vegetable nuggets, and children can also choose their own sides, from lots of healthy vegetable options, boiled rice or potato dishes.

Previously, children chose their meals from a trolley which was brought round at mealtimes. This didn’t offer as much choice and if a child had certain dietary requirements, they often had to wait while an additional meal was prepared.

As well as including more choice, healthier options and catering for all cultures, providing meals to order mean less food waste.

Aila Islam, five, was one of the first children to try a dish from the new menu when she stayed on Clover ward at King George Hospital, tucking into a chicken fillet and chips with lots of sweetcorn.

It was her second day on the ward after she was admitted with a high fever due to an infection – and her lunch was a big improvement on her first meal.

Mum Zahara Jilani, of Westrow Drive, Barking, said: “On her first day she had quiche which she wasn’t keen on, this was much more what she’s used to and would have a home.”

Three-year-old Oliver Ackland, of Sterry Road, Dagenham, tucked into a yummy pasta dish during his stay on Tropical Lagoon ward at Queen’s Hospital, when he was in for tests after lumps appeared on his arms and legs.

Mum Catherine said: It’s a really good menu and it’s got everything on there.

“It’s much better with little ones to be able to choose in advance, and there’s definitely lots of choice.”

The new menu also includes snack boxes, which are always available and a great option when a child has missed a meal, or been admitted to a ward late.

Gill Watson, Senior Sister on Tropical Lagoon children’s ward, added: “The new menus are lovely and the food seems to be going down a treat so far!”