Here's How Eating Snacks Throughout the Day Can Help School Performance
Nutrition plays a vital role in classroom success for children, which is why many schools allow children to eat snacks throughout the day. In fact, many nutrition specialists suggest that children eat a snack every three to four hours to stay full and focused all day, as well as learn smart eating habits that they can use in the future.
Young children receive energy from the nutrients in the healthy foods they eat, which keeps their body working properly. Watch for these common signs that indicate children need more “fuel” in order to focus and learn in the classroom:
- Stomach aches
- Headaches
- Colds
- Trouble focusing
- Stress
- Anger
Incorporating healthy food into children’s daily diets is simple. Try these quick, nutritional snacks.
- Cut-up fruit
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Sliced or chopped veggies
- Whole-grain crackers topped with cheese
- Popcorn
- Granola and cereal bars
- Trail mix
Remember, children need to eat every three to four hours to receive the maximum nutritional benefits!
Sources: BorgenProject.org; ChildrensHealthWatch.org; KidsHealth.org; Pre-school.org.uk; SFGate.com.
Column courtesy of Better Beginnings, a program of the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) that connects Arkansas families with information and care that helps their children experience a safe, happy, healthy childhood. Better Beginnings is designed to improve the level of quality in child care and early childhood education programs across the state. To find a Better Beginnings facility near you, visit www.ARBetterBeginnings.com or call (800) 445-3316.
