Food neutral language
Food neutrality is the understanding that no single food is better than another, no foods are good or bad. To create a non-judgmental environment for children and youth to feel safe eating a variety of foods, avoid using words like "good food", "bad food", "junk food", and "cheat day" to describe food. You can replace these words with neutral, matter-of-fact statements that describe foods. For example, "I like the taste of these candies, but when I eat a lot of them, they make me feel so tired" or “veggies make me feel full and strong”.
Creating a pressure-free eating environment
Picky eating is a normal part of growth and development for many children. Strategies such as involving kids in food preparation, and teaching them about different foods through books and community gardens can create a pressure-free way for children to explore new foods.
Consider the Satter Division of Responsibility in Feeding (sDOR) to help children learn the skills to be aware and self-trusting of their body’s hunger and fullness cues, and develop a positive relationship with food.
School lunches
It is important that children and youth eat a variety of healthy foods throughout the school day. These foods will give them the nutrients and energy that they need to learn, play, and grow. For tips on healthy eating at school, visit Canada’s food guide.
Allergy alert! Some schools may have to place restrictions on certain food items that might put a child at a high-risk of an anaphylactic allergic reaction. In this case, a list of restricted food items will be provided by the school.
Feeding growing appetites can be a challenge. The Food Sharing Project provides nutritious food to all publicly funded schools across the KFL&A area. Schools use this food to operate a student nutrition program that provides healthy food to any student, in a welcoming environment, supported by caring adults. If you have any questions about the student nutrition program at your child’s school, contact your school administrator.
