Schools play an important role in shaping lifelong healthy eating habits by offering nutritious meals through federal child nutrition programs . School meals include milk, fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, and they provide key nutrients like calcium and fiber. Schools can communicate with families about participation in school meal programs and let them know some students are eligible to receive free or reduced-price meals.
Healthy students are better learners. Research shows that eating habits [PDF – 480 KB] and healthy behaviors are connected to academic achievement. Student participation in the School Breakfast Program is associated with better grades and standardized test scores, reduced absences, and improved memory. Some schools provide breakfast in the classroom or during a morning break to ensure that all students can have a nutritious breakfast at school.
Whether school meals are served in the cafeteria or classrooms, it’s important for students to have enough time to eat, connect with peers, and enjoy their meal. Schools should ensure that students have at least 10 minutes once they are seated (seat time) for breakfast and at least 20 minutes for lunch. Having enough seat time is linked to more consumption of fruit, vegetables, lunch entrées, and milk, and less waste. 1-3
Schools can use the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) approach to promote federal school meal programs and nutritious snacks outside of school meal programs. Parents can take part in promoting healthy eating in school by asking that healthy foods and beverages are available at school events, celebrations, and fundraisers. CDC’s Parents for Healthy Schools offers more ideas on how to get involved and advocate for your child’s health and well-being.
Nutrition education empowers children with knowledge and skills to make healthy food and beverage choices. Nutrition education is part of a well-rounded health education curriculum but can also be included in other classes. For example, students could:
