Nutrition
PTA’s should always help promote proper nutrition and follow school guidelines. We also can help provide proper nutrition for those students who may not have adequate food and nutrition at home. Be aware of those students in your schools and see if there is something you can do to help. Proper nutrition is linked to learning readiness, academic achievement and decreased discipline and emotional problems. As a practice we love giving candy as rewards and incentives we also encourage you to think of non-food rewards as well.
Newsletter Highlight: Family Food Matters
Did you know that in the US, 1 out of 5 adolescents already has pre-diabetes? Family Food Matters is working towards chronic disease prevention by teaching families about eating healthy and incorporating movement into their everyday lifestyles. We all make choices about what we eat and the kinds of physical activity we do every day. Their online videos help educate and give us a gentle nudge towards creating better health. Dietitians with Family Food Matters can host a workshop at your school which would be a great addition to your Family Health or School Wellness Night. Check out their website for more info including how to set up a free workshop for your own community.
Resources:
Ideas:
- Invite Farm to School coordinators to come to your school
- Create a School Garden project
- Fuel Up to Play program
- Encourage fresh fruits and foods with higher nutritional value in school vending machines
- Help with Breakfast and ensure every child has breakfast
- Encourage non-food treats and incentives