FEEDING KIDS A HEALTHY

HEALTH

FEEDING KIDS A HEALTHY LUNCH

AN EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR TELLS US HOW

BY NORA HESTON TARTE

It’s summertime, and that means parents everywhere are on their own when it comes to meal times for kids. Without the school cafeteria to rely on for balanced lunches, how will you keep your kid from eating Hot Pockets and Cheetos all summer long?

Rachelle "Shelly" Metcalfe, the food and nutrition services school employee of the year from Lathrop Elementary, has you covered, offering tips for preparing nutrition-packed meals for kids of all ages, both over summer and during the school year.

WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT COMPONENTS OF A HEALTHY MEAL?

Healthy meals should have a source of protein, fruits and/or vegetables, and whole grains. Milk can also be a good source of protein and vitamins. WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST MISTAKES MADE WHEN IT COMES TO FEEDING SCHOOL-AGED KIDS?

I frequently see chips, which are high in fat and salt, and soda, which is high in sugar, brought from home. WHAT NUTRIENTS ARE SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN MOST OFTEN LACKING?

School-aged children often lack adequate sources of fiber, protein, or vitamins in their diet. Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of both fiber and vitamins. Most people know that bananas are high in potassium, but so are kiwis and strawberries. Protein doesn’t just mean meat. Some tasty, kidfriendly, high protein snacks include string cheese, sunflower seeds, nuts, and nut butters. SHARE YOUR GOTO, HEALTHY, AND KID-FRIENDLY LUNCHES THAT PARENTS CAN WHIP UP AT HOME.

A sandwich of lean lunch meats on whole grain bread is a good start. Add cut-up fruit and vegetables and nuts instead of chips. Fruit juice or milk are good alternatives to soda. While they do contain sugar, they have more nutrients than soda. Even Lunchables aren’t bad overall, they’re quick and easy. HOW CAN PARENTS TAKE THESE TIPS INTO THE NEXT SCHOOL YEAR?

Prep healthy foods ahead of time. Having fruits and vegetables cut in the fridge, along with things like string cheese, and packets of nut or whole grain crackers makes packing lunch each day easier.

NEED A MEAL?

Over summer, some children may not receive balanced meals, or maybe any meals at all. Unified, and other districts, have a Seamless Summer program for any children aged 2-18 to a pickup a healthy meal throughout summer.