Kids are back in school! Now is a great time to commit to strong nutrition habits by empowering the whole family to prepare healthy school lunches and snacks.
Four Tips to Help Children Learn About Nutrition
- Use age-appropriate terms
When explaining the importance of the foods we eat, use words that your child will understand.
2. Give examples of how all nutrients help their bodies
Carbohydrates (whole grains) are used as fuel for the brain and working muscles. Protein is used to build and repair body tissue. Healthy fat sources are much needed as a fuel source as well as absorbing certain nutrients. Don’t forget the importance of fruits and veggies, where you find your vitamins and minerals. Vitamins unlock energy in nutrients and minerals support growth, development and health.
3. Give examples of whole foods that fall into each category
For carbohydrates, focus on choices full of fiber such as whole-grain cereal, bread and pasta. Food like chicken, eggs, beef, or tofu are all proteins. Healthy fats include peanut butter, seeds, or nuts. Aim for bright, bold colors in your fruits and vegetables.
4. Avoid talking negatively about food
We want our children to be open-minded to trying new things. We need to make sure we’re not talking negatively about foods because that may influence how our children react before they even try them. Encourage your kids to try new things and try them more than once before deciding they do not like something.
Teaching kids about nutrition early can set them up for a lifetime of healthy habits. Remember, the key to their success starts with having healthy lifestyle habits at home.
Kaitie Delgado, MS, RD, Sports Dietitian CSSD, LD, ACSM-CPT, is a clinical dietitian with Hendricks Regional Health. She is a board-certified specialist in Sports Nutrition and works with local schools to educate student-athletes on using nutrition to meet their specific goals.
