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Nutrition Program for Kids' Lunches

Schools have a huge responsibility. Not only do they educate children and help shape the generation of tomorrow, but they also must ensure their well being. Unfortunately, many children and families are uneducated about nutrition and many children don't receive the right balance of foods at home. Many schools offer cheap and unhealthy food choices for their children, only adding to the problem. However, with a little effort, students can learn the benefits of healthy eating habits.

  1. Immerse It in the Curriculum

    • Hold an assembly about nutrition. Feature a fun video or hire a local theater troupe to present a skit or play about nutrition. Make the activities fun and interactive so that the children get the message. Photocopy coloring sheets with pictures of the food pyramid and fruits and vegetables for young children to color.

      The new Food Pyramid, released in 2005, has color coded it so that children can get a better idea of what to eat. It basically encourages children to eat a balanced diet so that they get more grains, fruits and vegetables and dairy and a moderate amount of fat and protein. Remember that the amount of foods needed varies by age group, so it is important to study the Food Pyramid to present accurate information. Kid's Health.org has a great website on interpreting The Food Pyramid (see Resources).

    Assemble a Packet

    • Assemble a packet about the benefits of nutrition for older children. Have them do activities such as a report on the information or take a test on it to ensure they have read the information. Send the packets home to the parents of all of the children and have them sign them so that the parents can at least be informed of the benefits of a healthy diet.

    Variety

    • Hire a nutritionist. You can usually get in touch with one through your local hospital or government agency. Have him advise you on what to prepare for school lunches, making sure the menus are tasty and healthy. Remember, you don't have to sacrifice taste for good health.

    Portion-Control

    • Educate the lunch servers on portion control. Have the nutritionist show them the proper amount of food to serve each child for hot lunch. Over-serving children with large portion sizes is one of the biggest culprits of childhood obesity and other nutrition related dangers.

      In your lessons on nutrition, show your pupils proper serving sizes. One popular way is to show decks of cards or bring in plastic fruits so the children can visualize a proper serving amount. Use The Food Pyramid as a guide.

    Visit the USDA Website

    • Visit the USDA's nutrition website (located in the resources section) for free handouts and other classroom materials. Use these materials to make a food pyramid to hang in the classroom or to print out resources such as coloring book pages.

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