Nutrition Education Resources

Sorghum: The Ancient Grain with Modern Benefits

Sorghum is a cereal grain that has been around for over 5,000 years. This ancient grain is making a big comeback, and for good reason. Not only is sorghum delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients that help keep us strong, healthy, and energized.

What Makes Sorghum So Special?

Packed with Goodness

Sorghum is a nutritional powerhouse! This tiny grain is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and potassium. It’s also a great source of fiber, which helps keep digestive systems healthy and our energy levels steady throughout the day. Plus, sorghum is rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage and support a strong immune system.

And let’s not forget about protein. Sorghum contains a good amount of plant-based protein, making it an excellent option for anyone looking to add more protein to their diet, especially if you’re exploring vegetarian or vegan options.

Gluten-Free Goodness

For those who have gluten intolerance or celiac disease, finding tasty alternatives to wheat can be a challenge. That’s where sorghum comes in! It’s naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy all kinds of delicious foods without worrying about gluten. From sorghum flour in baking to whole sorghum grains in salads, this versatile grain makes it easy to enjoy your favorite dishes while staying gluten-free.

Eco-Friendly Grain

Did you know that sorghum is also kind to our planet? It’s a drought-resistant crop that requires less water and fewer natural resources to grow compared to many other grains. This makes sorghum an eco-friendly choice that supports sustainable agriculture. By including sorghum in our meals, we’re not only doing something good for our bodies but also for the environment.

Versatile and Fun to Eat

One of the best things about sorghum is how versatile it is in the kitchen. You might already find it in cereals, breads, and snacks, but there are so many other fun and creative ways to enjoy sorghum. Try steaming the grains for a hearty side dish, or popping them like popcorn for a crunchy, satisfying snack. Sorghum can also be cooked into soups, stews, and even desserts. The possibilities are endless!

Interested in trying sorghum?  Here are some fun recipes:

Gluten Free Sugar Cookies

Sorghum Pancakes

Sorghum BLT Salad

 

Fun Resources:

Sorghum Maze, Word Search & Coloring Pages

Sorghum Lesson Plans for 3-6th grades

Sorghum Poster

Sorghum Activity Pages

Sorghum Activity Sheets for Families

 

Sources: 

Whole Grains Council [https://wholegrainscouncil.org/]

Celiac Disease Foundation [https://celiac.org/]

Sorghum Checkoff [https://www.sorghumcheckoff.com/]

February is Heart Health month! 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.  Heart disease includes various heart conditions, with coronary artery disease being the most prevalent, often leading to heart attacks. Risk factors for heart disease encompass high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, lack of physical activity, an unhealthy diet, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. However, making small lifestyle adjustments can empower you to take control of your heart health.  There are many heart-healthy foods that can contribute to your overall well-being. So, let's dive into the world of nutritious delights that will keep our hearts happy and healthy!

1. Start Your Day Right with a Heart-Healthy Breakfast:

   Teachers and students alike, kickstart your day with a nutritious breakfast! Opt for whole grains such as oatmeal or whole-grain cereal to provide long-lasting energy. Add fruits like berries or bananas for a burst of antioxidants and fiber. A heart-healthy breakfast sets the tone for a day filled with focus and productivity.

2. Power Up with Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

   Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. These healthy fats are known to support heart health. Fatty fish like salmon and trout are excellent sources. For our vegetarian friends, consider flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts as plant-based alternatives. Omega-3s contribute to reducing inflammation and promoting optimal heart function.

3. Colorful Fruits and Vegetables for Heart Health:

   The vibrant hues of fruits and vegetables signal a treasure trove of nutrients. Aim to fill your plate with a rainbow of colors, as each color represents different health benefits. Leafy greens, berries, citrus fruits, and tomatoes are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support heart health.

4. Whole Grains for Sustained Energy:

   Swap refined grains for whole grains to keep your heart in top-notch condition. Brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread, and whole-grain pasta are excellent choices. These foods provide a steady release of energy and are rich in fiber, promoting digestive health and heart well-being.

5. Smart Snacking for Heart Health:

   Snacking can be a part of a heart-healthy lifestyle if done right. Opt for snacks like nuts, seeds, yogurt, and fresh fruits. These choices provide essential nutrients and can help maintain energy levels throughout the day. Avoid sugary snacks and opt for wholesome alternatives that nourish your body and heart.

6. Hydrate with Heart-Healthy Beverages:

   Stay hydrated with water, herbal teas, and 100% fruit juices. Limit sugary drinks and excessive caffeine intake. Proper hydration supports overall health, including heart function.

• Crossword Puzzle: 12 Reasons to Eat Fruits & Vegetables
• Heart Health Lesson Plans for Teachers for all grades
• Exercise with Items at Home

 

Heart Attack, Stroke & Cardiac Arrest Symptoms

Did you know that March 3-7, 2025 is National School Breakfast Week?

Established in 1989, National School Breakfast Week is the perfect time to celebrate the most important meal of the day and all the goodness it brings to our mornings. Whether you're a student gearing up for a day of learning or a teacher prepping for a day of inspiration, a nutritious breakfast is your best friend.

Here are a few reasons why school breakfast matters:

• Fuel for Success: Breakfast gives you the energy to kickstart your day. It's like topping up your gas tank before a long journey. With a balanced meal in the morning, you'll be ready to tackle whatever challenges come your way in the classroom.
• Brain Boost: Did you know that breakfast can boost your brainpower? Studies have shown that students who eat breakfast perform better in school. So, if you want to ace that test or nail that presentation, don't skip breakfast!
• Healthy Habits: School breakfast is a great time to develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime. By choosing nutritious options like fruits, whole grains, and protein, you're setting yourself up for a day of success and well-being.
• Community Connection: Breakfast time is a chance to connect with your classmates or colleagues. Whether you're chatting over cereal in the cafeteria or sharing a recipe with your teacher, breakfast can bring people together and create a sense of community.
• Setting the Tone: Starting the day with a healthy breakfast sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. When you nourish your body and mind in the morning, you're more likely to make healthy choices throughout the day.

So, let's raise a toast (or a piece of toast) to National School Breakfast! Whether you're enjoying a bowl of cereal, a cup of yogurt, or a cinnamon roll, take a moment to appreciate the power of breakfast and all the possibilities it brings to your day.

Fun Resources:

National School Breakfast Activities

National School Breakfast Puzzles

Sources: https://schoolnutrition.org/about-school-meals/national-school-breakfast-week/

What Is Dairy?

Dairy refers to a group of foods derived from milk. It includes: 

1. Milk: The cornerstone of dairy, milk is rich in essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein
2. Yogurt: Fermented milk with live probiotics, offering gut-friendly benefits
3. Cheese: A delightful variety of flavors and textures, cheese provides protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients

Health Benefits of Dairy:

1. Strong Bones and Teeth:
   • Calcium: Dairy is a prime source of calcium, crucial for bone health. It fortifies bones, reduces the risk of osteoporosis, and keeps teeth strong
   • Vitamin D: Milk is often fortified with vitamin D, which enhances calcium absorption
2. Optimal Growth and Development:
   • Protein: Dairy supplies high-quality protein necessary for growth, tissue repair, and immune function
   • Vitamins and Minerals: Dairy contains B vitamins (like B12), zinc, and selenium, supporting overall health
3. Heart Health:
   • Potassium: Milk and yogurt are excellent sources of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure
   • Reduced Risk of Heart Disease: Consuming dairy may lower the risk of heart disease
4. Weight Management:
   • Protein Satiety: Dairy protein keeps you full, aiding weight management.
   • Calcium’s Role: Adequate calcium intake may prevent excess fat storage

How Can Students Get More Dairy?

1. Start the Day Right:
   • Join us for school breakfast where we serve whole grains, yogurt, cheese and milk! 
   • At home, add cheese to whole-grain toast or scrambled eggs, yogurt and granola or even a tall glass of low-fat milk
2. Snack Smart:
   • Grab a yogurt cup or a cheese stick when you get home from school
   • Pair fruit with cottage cheese for a tasty snack
3. Lunchtime Delights:
   • Opt for low-fat milk or low-fat flavored milk with your meal
   • School lunch offers a dairy-based entree every day, these are great choices to increase dairy in your diet
   • Include cheese slices in sandwiches or wraps at home
4. Explore Flavors:
   • Try different types of yogurt (Greek, fruit-flavored, or plain)
   • Experiment with various cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, feta)

Remember, variety is key! Choose low-fat or non-fat options if you're watching calories. And don't forget: water and plain milk are the best beverages for students aged 1 to 5 years. Plant-based alternatives lack the same nutrient profile as dairy milk. So, let's raise our glasses (of milk) to better health and stronger bones! 🥛💪

Fun Resources & Activities:

Dairy Puzzles

Farm to Fridge Coloring Page

Undeniable Dairy Color by Number Page

Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin Activity Sheets

 

Watch how milk makes its way from the Farm to your school

Fun Recipes:

Bluey Smoothie

Strawberry Orange Smoothie

Tomato & Ricotta Toast

 

Sources:
(1) Milk and Dairy Foods’ Important Role in School Meal Programs. https://www.healthyeating.org/nutrition-topics/nutrition-science/scientific-research/milk-dairy-school-meal-programs.
(2) Dairy’s Role in Child and Teen Nutrition + Health. https://www.dairycouncilofca.org/what-we-do/milk-dairy-nutrition/dairy's-role-in-child-and-teen-nutrition-health.
(3) The Healthy School Milk Commitment - IDFA. https://www.idfa.org/healthyschoolmilk.
(4) Dairy | The Nutrition Source - Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/dairy/.
(5) Make the Grade with the Health Benefits of Milk. https://thedairyalliance.com/blog/make-the-grade-with-school-milk/.
(6) https://www.dairycouncilofca.org/what-we-do/milk-dairy-nutrition/dairy.

National School Lunch Hero Day: A Tribute to Our Everyday Superheroes

As the sun rises on May 5, 2025, schools across the nation will come together to celebrate a group of unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes, the School Lunch Heroes! These dedicated individuals ensure that every student who walks into their cafeteria receives not just a meal, but also a warm smile, a listening ear, and a sense of belonging.

Why Celebrate School Lunch Hero Day?

In 2013, the School Nutrition Association (SNA) joined forces with author Jarrett J. Krosoczka, known for his popular "Lunch Lady" book series, to create a day of recognition for these extraordinary individuals. And thus, School Lunch Hero Day was born!

Who Are Our Heroes?

Our school lunch heroes wear aprons instead of capes, and their superpowers include whipping up delicious and nutritious meals, managing food allergies, and ensuring that every student feels welcome. They are the friendly faces who greet our children each day, making sure they have the fuel they need to learn, grow, and thrive.

How Can You Celebrate?

• Express Your Gratitude:
  • Write heartfelt thank-you notes to your school lunch heroes. Let them know how much you appreciate their hard work and dedication.
  • Organize a student-led assembly where students can publicly thank these everyday superheroes.
• Decorate the Cafeteria:
  • Deck out the cafeteria with banners, streamers, and posters celebrating our lunch heroes.
  • Encourage students to create artwork or posters showcasing their favorite lunchtime memories.
• Host a "Lunch Hero" Parade:
  • Gather students, teachers, and staff for a lively parade through the school hallways. Wave banners, blow bubbles, and cheer for our lunch heroes!
  • Don't forget to play some upbeat music to set the festive mood.
• Create a Heroic Menu:
  • Collaborate with your school's nutrition team to design a special menu for the day. Feature student favorites and maybe even a surprise treat!
  • Consider naming dishes after superheroes or lunchtime legends.
• Share Their Stories:
  • Interview your school lunch heroes and share their stories 
  • Highlight their dedication, creativity, and the impact they make on students' lives.
• Get Involved!

Whether you're a student, teacher, or parent, you can participate in School Lunch Hero Day. Let's celebrate these unsung champions who nourish both bodies and hearts. 🙌❤️

Remember, our school lunch heroes don't wear capes—they wear aprons, and they serve up kindness, one tray at a time! 🍽️

Join the nationwide celebration and spread the word: #SchoolLunchHeroDay!

Fun Resources & Activities:

School Lunch Hero Day Cards English

School Lunch Hero Day Cards Espanol

Make your own School Lunch Comic

DIY Student Signed Apron Craft

How to Draw Lunch Lady

Sources:
- https://schoolnutrition.org/about-school-meals/school-lunch-hero-day/

 

Eating fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables is a fantastic way to enjoy nutritious and flavorful meals. Let's dive into the top five summer produce items and explore some fun and tasty ways to prepare them.

• Watermelon

  • Watermelon is a quintessential summer fruit that is not only refreshing but also packed with vitamins A and C.
  • How to Enjoy Watermelon:
    • Slices & Cubes: The simplest way is to slice it into wedges or cube it for a quick snack.
    • Watermelon Salad: Mix cubed watermelon with feta cheese, mint leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory salad.
    • Smoothies: Blend watermelon with a splash of lime juice and some ice for a hydrating smoothie.

• Strawberries

  • Strawberries are a sweet treat full of antioxidants and vitamin C. They are perfect for various recipes or just as they are.
  • How to Enjoy Strawberries:
    • Fresh & Whole: Rinse and eat them fresh. They make a perfect snack.
    • Strawberry Shortcake: Layer sliced strawberries over shortcake biscuits with a dollop of whipped cream.
    • Yogurt Parfaits: Layer strawberries with yogurt and granola for a delicious breakfast or snack.

• Tomatoes

  • Tomatoes are at their peak in the summer, offering rich flavors and plenty of nutrients like vitamins C and K.
  • How to Enjoy Tomatoes:
    • Caprese Salad: Slice tomatoes and mozzarella, then layer with basil leaves and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
    • Salsa: Chop tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños, then mix with lime juice for a fresh salsa.
    • Stuffed Tomatoes: Hollow out tomatoes and fill with a mixture of quinoa, herbs, and feta cheese. Bake until tender.

• Cucumbers

  • Cucumbers are incredibly hydrating and perfect for hot summer days. They are low in calories but high in nutrients.
  • How to Enjoy Cucumbers:
    • Cucumber Salad: Slice cucumbers thinly and toss with vinegar, salt, and a touch of sugar for a quick salad.
    • Tzatziki Sauce: Grate cucumber and mix with Greek yogurt, garlic, and dill for a creamy dip.
    • Infused Water: Add cucumber slices to a pitcher of water with some mint leaves for a refreshing drink.

• Zucchini

  • Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be used in both savory and sweet dishes. It's rich in vitamins and minerals.
  • How to Enjoy Zucchini
    • Zucchini Noodles: Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles (zoodles) and sauté them with garlic and olive oil.
    • Zucchini Bread: Grate zucchini into batter for a moist and nutritious bread.
    • Grilled Zucchini: Slice zucchini lengthwise, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender. Season with salt and pepper.

Enjoy Your Summer Harvest! We hope you try out these ideas and discover new ways to enjoy your favorite summer produce. Eating fresh, local fruits and vegetables is not only good for your health but also supports local farmers. Have a wonderful and delicious summer!

Fun Activities & Resources:

Here are some fun websites that offer kid-friendly activities related to summer harvests:

• Kids Gardening

  • Website: https://kidsgardening.org/
  • Description: Kids Gardening offers a wealth of resources and activities designed to engage children in gardening and learning about plants. They provide hands-on activities, lesson plans, and gardening tips that are perfect for exploring summer produce.

• Eat Real

  • Website: https://eatreal.org/
  • Description: Eat Real provides educational resources and interactive activities focused on healthy eating and understanding where food comes from. They have fun games, recipes, and challenges that teach kids about different fruits and vegetables, including summer produce.

• PBS Kids

  • Website: https://pbskids.org/earthday/plantandgrow.html
  • Description: PBS Kids offers engaging games, videos, and activities that help children learn about gardening and plants. Their "Plant & Grow" section is particularly useful for exploring how to grow and enjoy summer fruits and vegetables.

• Food Champs

  • Website: https://www.foodchamps.org/
  • Description: FoodChamps is a site designed to teach kids about fruits and vegetables through games, activities, and coloring pages. They feature a variety of produce, including those that are popular in summer, and provide fun facts and recipes.

• Dole SuperKids

  • Website: https://www.dole.com/en/superkids
  • Description: Dole SuperKids offers fun and educational resources to teach children about healthy eating and the benefits of fruits and vegetables. They have interactive games, printable activities, and recipes that focus on making healthy food fun.

• Scholastic - Summer Reading Challenge

  • Website: https://www.scholastic.com/summer/home/
  • Description: Scholastic's Summer Reading Challenge encourages kids to read about various topics, including healthy eating and gardening. They provide reading lists, activities, and challenges that can include stories and projects related to summer produce.

• Crayola - Grow Your Garden

  • Website: https://www.crayola.com/crafts/grow-your-garden-craft/
  • Description: Crayola offers creative activities and crafts that can tie into learning about gardening and summer fruits and vegetables. Their "Grow Your Garden" craft is a fun way to combine art and gardening education.

Watch a Watermelon Grow from Seed to Fruit

Fun Recipes

Watermelon Pizza

Stuffed Cucumber Bites

Spaghetti Pesto Sauce and Zucchini

 

Wheat Loves Kansas!

Why is wheat so crazy about Kansas? Well, it’s all about our climate! Wheat is like that easygoing friend who doesn’t mind a little rain (10-15 inches a year, to be precise). And guess what? It grows in every county here! We mostly grow winter wheat, which means it’s planted in the fall and harvested during the sunny summer days.

Soil Secrets

Our state soil, Harney silt loam, is wheat’s BFF. It’s a mix of sand, silt, and clay—perfect for holding moisture and letting excess water drain away. Imagine a cozy blanket for wheat roots! But farmers work hard to keep the soil healthy. They add nutrients (like giving vitamins to the soil) and practice cool things like crop rotation (wheat dances with corn, soybeans, and sorghum). 

History Lesson

Wheat has a story to tell! Back in the 1870s, German and Russian Mennonites brought a special wheat called Turkey Red. It loved Kansas like a sunflower loves sunshine! Even when tough times hit—droughts, locusts, and the Great Depression—wheat stood strong. During World War II, our farmers became superheroes, feeding our troops with wheat power!

Health Benefits of Wheat

Wheat offers essential nutrients for our bodies:

Carbohydrates: Wheat provides energy due to its high carbohydrate content.
Fiber: Whole wheat is rich in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
Vitamins and Minerals: Wheat contains B vitamins (except B12), vitamin E, and minerals like iron and magnesium.
Antioxidants: Whole-grain wheat is a source of antioxidants that protect our cells.

How We Use Wheat

Wheat appears in various forms:

Bread: White and whole-wheat flour create delicious bread.
Pasta: Think spaghetti and macaroni!
Couscous: A tiny pasta used in Mediterranean dishes.
Bulgur: A nutritious grain for salads and pilafs.
Noodles: From ramen to soba, noodles are wheat-based.

Fun Fact

Did you know wheatgrass has superpowers? It’s like Popeye’s spinach! People drink wheatgrass juice to stay healthy. 🌱

So, next time you see those golden fields, remember: Kansas and wheat go together like peanut butter and jelly! Keep waving, little wheat stalks! 🌟

Fun Resources:

Kansas Farm Bureau "I Work with Wheat"

North Dakota's Wheat Commission Story of Wheat

What's in the Field Crossword Puzzle

Wheat Coloring Page

 

What's in the Field?

Watch wheat go from Farm to Bread

Fun Recipes to Try:

Pumpkin Oat Dark Chocolate Chip Cookies

Whole Wheat Muffins with Apples and Oats

August is here, and with it comes an exciting opportunity to celebrate Kids Eat Right Month! This month is all about promoting healthy eating habits and active lifestyles among our young learners. Let’s dive into what Kids Eat Right Month is all about, why it’s important, and how we can all take steps towards healthier living.

What is Kids Eat Right Month?

Kids Eat Right Month, observed every August, is a campaign initiated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and its Foundation. This month-long event is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of nutrition and physical activity for children. It aims to inspire children, families, and communities to make healthier food choices and incorporate more physical activities into their daily routines.

Why is Eating Healthy and Staying Active Important?

Good nutrition and regular physical activity are crucial for children’s growth, development, and overall well-being. Here’s why:

• Supports Growth and Development: Proper nutrition provides the essential nutrients that children need to grow and develop, both physically and mentally.
• Boosts Energy Levels: Eating balanced meals and staying active help maintain energy levels, keeping kids alert and focused throughout the day.
• Prevents Chronic Diseases: Healthy eating habits and regular exercise can reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
• Improves Academic Performance: Studies show that children who eat nutritious meals perform better academically. A healthy diet enhances concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills.

Tips for Developing Healthy Eating Habits

Here are some simple yet effective tips to help children develop healthy eating habits and embrace an active lifestyle:

1. Start the Day with a Nutritious Breakfast: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Encourage students to eat a balanced breakfast that includes whole grains, protein, and fruits.
2. Incorporate a Variety of Foods: Introduce a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables to meals and snacks. Each color provides different essential nutrients.
3. Choose Whole Grains: Opt for whole grain options such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oatmeal. Whole grains are packed with fiber and essential nutrients.
4. Limit Sugary Drinks and Snacks: Encourage drinking water and milk instead of sugary drinks. Opt for healthier snack options like nuts, fruits, and yogurt.
5. Be Active Every Day: Promote at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. This can include playing sports, riding a bike, or even dancing.
6. Involve Kids in Meal Planning and Preparation: Let children help with grocery shopping and meal prep. This involvement can make them more interested in trying new, healthy foods.
7. Set a Good Example: Teachers and parents can set a positive example by making healthy food choices and staying active. Children are more likely to follow suit when they see adults practicing what they preach.
8. Create a Positive Eating Environment: Encourage mindful eating by having regular family meals without distractions like TV or smartphones.

Stay Healthy and Active! 

Fun Resources:

Fruit Sizes

Vegetable Sizes

Make Half Your Grains Whole Grain Activity Packet

Limit Sugary Drinks Infographic

 

Where to find added sugars on a Nutrition Facts Label on food & drinks:

Source: https://www.eatright.org/kids-eat-right-month

The Taste of Sweetness

Sweet peppers, also known as bell peppers, come in a rainbow of colors—green, red, yellow, orange, and even purple! Each color offers a slightly different taste. Green peppers tend to be more grassy and slightly bitter, while red, yellow, and orange peppers are sweeter and milder. The red ones are the ripest and the sweetest of the bunch, making them a favorite for many!

Nutritional Benefits

Sweet peppers aren’t just tasty; they’re packed with nutrients that are essential for growing bodies and active minds:

• Vitamin C: Did you know that a single red bell pepper contains more Vitamin C than an orange? This vitamin is vital for keeping our immune system strong and helps our body heal cuts and bruises.

• Vitamin A: Red and orange peppers are rich in Vitamin A, which is important for good vision, especially at night, and keeps our skin healthy.

• Fiber: Sweet peppers are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and keeps us feeling full longer—great for staying focused in class!

• Antioxidants: These veggies are loaded with antioxidants, which help protect our cells from damage and keep our bodies healthy.

How Sweet Peppers Grow

Sweet peppers are a warm-season crop that loves the sun. They start as tiny seeds, planted in rich soil during spring. As they grow, these plants need plenty of sunlight, water, and a little bit of patience. Over time, they develop flowers, and from these flowers, the peppers begin to grow.

It usually takes about 60-90 days from planting for the peppers to mature. Green peppers are picked before they fully ripen, while red, orange, and yellow peppers are left on the plant longer to develop their sweeter flavors and vibrant colors.

Why You Should Add Sweet Peppers to Your Plate

Whether you're packing a picnic lunch or preparing dinner at home, sweet peppers are a versatile ingredient. You can slice them up for a crunchy snack, add them to your sandwiches, stir-fry them with other veggies, or even stuff them with grains and cheese for a hearty meal.

Next time you see these bright veggies on your plate, remember all the amazing benefits they bring. Not only do they add a burst of color and flavor to your meals, but they also help you stay healthy and strong.

Stay healthy and keep exploring new foods!

Fun Resources & Activities:

Bell Pepper Shamrock Art Activity

Bell Pepper Lesson Plan for Teachers

Vegetable Crossword

How do Peppers Grow?

How to Cut a Bell Pepper

Fun Recipes:

Bell Pepper Egg-in-a-Hole

No Celery Ants on a Log

Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

Green & Red Bell Pepper Bites

 

 

Celebrating National School Lunch Week: October 12-18, 2024

As we approach October, it's time to celebrate one of the most significant weeks in our school year—National School Lunch Week (NSLW)! This annual event, held from October 12-18, 2024, is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the importance of our school lunch program and to educate students, teachers, and parents about the benefits of healthy school meals.

What is National School Lunch Week?

National School Lunch Week was established in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy. The goal was to promote the importance of a nutritious lunch for students and to raise awareness about the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). This weeklong celebration emphasizes the crucial role that school meals play in fostering healthy eating habits, supporting academic achievement, and ensuring the well-being of students across the country.

Why is School Lunch Important?

1. Nutritional Benefits: School lunches are designed to provide students with balanced, nutritious meals that meet federal dietary guidelines. These meals include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, which are essential for growing bodies and minds. For many students, school lunch is a critical source of daily nutrition.

2. Academic Success: Studies have shown a direct link between nutrition and academic performance. A well-balanced lunch can improve concentration, memory, and overall classroom behavior, setting students up for success in their studies.

3. Food Security: For some children, school lunch is the most reliable and nutritious meal of the day. The NSLP ensures that all students, regardless of their economic background, have access to healthy meals.

4. Promoting Healthy Eating Habits: By offering a variety of healthy food options, school lunch programs help students develop lifelong healthy eating habits. Exposure to different fruits, vegetables, and whole grains at a young age encourages children to make healthier food choices.

How You Can Participate

During National School Lunch Week, we’ll be celebrating with special menus, fun activities, and opportunities for students to learn more about nutrition. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Encourage Participation: Teachers, please remind students about the importance of eating a balanced lunch. Encourage them to try new foods and make healthy choices.
• Get Creative: Students can participate in contests or activities related to nutrition, such as creating a poster about their favorite healthy lunch or coming up with their own healthy recipes.
• Parent Involvement: Parents, take this week as an opportunity to talk to your children about what they’re eating at school. Consider joining us for lunch one day and see firsthand the healthy meals we’re serving.

Looking Forward

National School Lunch Week is more than just a celebration—it's a reminder of the vital role that school meals play in our community. By ensuring that every child has access to nutritious food, we’re not only helping them grow physically but also setting the stage for their future success.

Fun Resources & Activities:

National School Lunch Week Activities & Coloring Pages

Health Benefits: Why Sweet Potatoes Are a Superfood

Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and nutrients that help keep our bodies strong and healthy. Here’s what makes them so special:

• Vitamin A Powerhouse: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, which is great for your eyes. It helps you see better, especially in the dark!
• Energy Boosters: They give you lots of energy to play, run, and learn because they’re full of healthy carbs.
• Strong Muscles: Sweet potatoes have potassium, which helps your muscles work well, so you can keep up with all your favorite activities.
• Happy Tummies: They have fiber, which keeps your tummy happy and helps with digestion.

Cooking Methods: How to Make Sweet Potatoes Yummy

There are so many fun ways to cook and eat sweet potatoes. Here are a few ideas:

• Mashed Sweet Potatoes: You can mash them up just like regular potatoes. Add a little butter, and maybe a sprinkle of cinnamon, and you’ve got a sweet and creamy treat!
• Baked Sweet Potatoes: Just pop them in the oven, and they come out soft and sweet. You can eat them with a little honey or even peanut butter for extra yum.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Cut them into thin strips, bake them in the oven, and you have a healthier version of fries that are crispy and sweet.

Ways to Eat Sweet Potatoes: Get Creative!

There are lots of fun and tasty ways to enjoy sweet potatoes:

• In a Salad: Add some roasted sweet potato cubes to your salad for a pop of color and sweetness.
• In a Smoothie: Believe it or not, you can blend cooked sweet potatoes into a smoothie with some milk and bananas for a creamy, orange drink.
• As a Snack: Sweet potato chips are a crunchy and fun snack that you can enjoy anytime.

Fun Facts About Sweet Potatoes

• Not the Same as Yams: Even though some people call them yams, sweet potatoes and yams are different. Sweet potatoes are sweeter and have orange flesh.
• Ancient Food: Sweet potatoes have been around for thousands of years. They were even eaten by ancient civilizations like the Incas!
• Super Growers: They grow underground like a treasure waiting to be found. They’re ready to harvest after about 3-4 months.

So, the next time you see sweet potatoes on your plate, remember all the cool things you just learned. Give them a try, and you might just discover your new favorite food!

Watch How Sweet Potatoes Go From Crop to Store

Fun Resources:

Sweet Potato Hummus; Roasted Black Bean & Sweet Potato Salad

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Baked Apples & Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potato Nachos

Winter Greens: Cool Colors, Cozy Vibes!

Winter Greens are a group of vegetables that grow well in cold weather and can survive frost or snow. They include kale, collard greens, Brussels sprouts, turnip greens, mustard greens, and more. These vegetables are not only delicious, but also very nutritious. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, which can benefit your health in many ways.

Some of the benefits of eating winter greens are:

• They can boost your immune system and help you fight off colds and flu. Winter greens are high in vitamin C, which is essential for your body’s defense against infections. One cup of cooked kale, for example, provides more than 100% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C.
• They can support your bone and heart health. Winter greens are excellent sources of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone formation. Vitamin K also helps prevent calcium from building up in your arteries, which can lower your risk of heart disease. One cup of cooked Brussels sprouts, for instance, contains more than 100% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin K.
• They can regulate your blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes. Winter greens are high in fiber and alpha-lipoic acid, both of which can help keep your blood sugar stable. Fiber slows down the digestion of carbohydrates, which prevents spikes and crashes in your blood glucose. Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation.

Winter greens are versatile and easy to prepare. You can enjoy them raw in salads, smoothies, or juices, or cook them in soups, stews, stir-fries, or casseroles. You can also season them with garlic, onion, lemon, vinegar, or herbs to enhance their flavor. Try to eat at least one serving of winter greens every day to reap their health benefits and add some color to your winter meals.

Fun Resources:

Fact Sheet on Dark Green, Red and Orange Vegetables

Collard Greens: Fun Facts & Recipes

Fun Recipes:

Garlic Kale