Alexander Molteno, Llandudno Primary School principal
Have you ever stopped to think about what fuels a child's brain at school?
It's easy to overlook, but the truth is, the food kids eat has a big impact on how well they do in class.
Nowadays, we're finding out more and more that good nutrition is key not just for a healthy body, but also for a sharp mind.
As parents and teachers, it's important for us to pay attention to this and make sure our children are eating in a way that helps them learn better.
Let's talk about one of the biggest problems in learners’ diets: too much sugar.
While most of us know that eating a lot of sugar isn't great for our health, causing things like obesity and diabetes, many don't realise it can also make learning harder.
Research has shown that too much sugar can mess with our ability to remember things and make it tougher for us to learn new information. Imagine a child eating a chocolate bar right before trying to do their homework.
It might seem like it gives them a boost, but in reality, it does not and fruits or vegetables are much better for their brain.
The average child eats way more sugar than they should, which is concerning when you think about how this can slow down their brain.
Studies have found that an overload of sweetness doesn't just make it hard to form new memories, but it also ups the risk for long-term issues like dementia.
So, when we're reaching for that extra sweetie, it's worth thinking about the effect it might have on our brains.
But it's not just about cutting down on sugar. Our kids need a diet that's balanced, one that's good for their brains and helps them focus in school.
This means eating foods that are packed with nutrients they need, like iron and vitamins, which help them think clearly and learn.
Children who eat well tend to be healthier overall, which means they miss fewer days of school and can really make the most of their time in the classroom.
Now, you might be wondering what kind of food is best for learning. Well, it's pretty simple.
Foods that are full of protein, fats, complex carbohydrates, and fibre are great for keeping learners’ minds sharp.
Think about adding more omega-3 fatty acids to their diet, which are found in fish and can help boost brain power.
And don't forget about whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods give children the vitamins and minerals they need without all the added sugar that can set them back.
Drinking plenty of water and making sure to eat a healthy breakfast are also important. It's all about making sure that children have the right kind of energy to help them learn and grow.
We don't want them to be filled with sugar that might make them crash later. Instead, we want to fuel their brains with food that keeps them going strong all day.
It's clear that what our kids eat plays a big role in how well they do in school. By choosing better snacks and meals for them, we're not just helping learners stay healthy — we're also giving them a boost in the classroom.
It's up to us to make those smart choices and help set our children up for success, both now and in the future.
Let's make a commitment to better nutrition for our kids. It's one of the most important things we can do for their education.