Did you know that a child’s diet can have a significant impact on their performance at school? 

As teachers we have seen firsthand that children who eat healthy foods are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their schoolwork and activities in the classroom. 

We all know a healthy diet is essential for overall health and wellbeing. Choosing the right foods provides the body with the nutrients it needs to function properly, including the nutrients that are essential for cognitive function and academic performance.

There are a number of specific ways in which healthy eating can improve children’s motivation and attention in the classroom. For example, healthy foods can help to:

• Increase energy levels!
• Improve mood!
• Reduce stress!
• Improve memory!
• Improve cognitive function!

As a healthy diet can improve children’s energy levels and concentration, several schools across Australia now incorporate fruit snack eating times into the days schedule. These breaks occur around 10am in the morning and can be referred to as ‘Fruit Break’, ‘Brain Break’, ‘Crunch and Sip’, ‘Munch and Crunch’ or ‘Fruit Snack Break’. By providing fruit snack break eating times, schools can help to ensure that their students are getting the nutrients they need to be successful in the classroom.

Tips for Parents

There are a number of things you can do to help your children eat healthier foods. These tips include:

• Providing healthy foods at home. Ensure your children have access to healthy foods at home. This means stocking the kitchen with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
• Modelling healthy eating habits. Children are more likely to eat healthy foods if they see their parents eating healthy foods. 
• Limiting unhealthy foods. Limit the amount of unhealthy foods your children eat. This includes sugary drinks, processed foods, and fast food.
• Teaching children about nutrition. Teach your children about the importance of eating healthy foods. This can be done by talking to them about the different nutrients their bodies need and how to find healthy foods.
• Making it fun. Parents should make it fun for their children to eat healthy foods. This could involve cooking healthy meals together, making healthy snacks, or playing games that involve fruits and vegetables.

Did you find this blog useful? Let us know by getting in touch here.