Nutrition - Programs and Services Offered - Secondary Schools

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Programs and Services Offered - Secondary School

A Supportive Social Environment

A supportive social environment makes it easier for students to translate what they learn in the classroom into the broader school environment. This support may be formal (e.g., school policies, guidelines or support groups) or informal (e.g., healthy interactions with teachers and peers).

Be a Positive Role Model

Teachers and coaches have a substantial impact, both positive and negative on students. Youth who see teachers eating healthy foods are more likely to eat well themselves.

Set Food and Nutrition Policies to Support Healthy Eating

Food and Nutrition policies are not meant to control personal choice, but rather provide support and education around making healthy choices. A school nutrition policy will help to ensure students can apply the healthy eating behaviours they have learned in the classroom.

Nutrition Services staff are available to consult with schools around the development and review of school food and nutrition policies.

Start a Student Nutrition Program

Several secondary schools in York Region receive funding and support from York Region Food for Learning to assist in implementing a breakfast or snack program. In these schools, volunteers come together to provide universal nutrition programs for the students to support their nutritional health and educational achievement.

In order to get started with a Student Nutrition Program, the school must have a dedicated person who is committed to overseeing the program. This person will receive training, funding, and resources to develop and sustain breakfast and snack programs from York Region Food for Learning.

Appropriate Scheduling of Lunch

Research has found that students need a minimum of 20 continuous minutes of eating time for nutrition breaks. Additional time should be provided for purchasing of food, washing hands, socializing and perhaps doing some physical activity.

Promote Healthy Eating in Schools

Get your school committee to work on one nutrition goal at a time. Plan activities to help your committee meet these goals. York Region Nutrition Staff have compiled a list of activities along with descriptions to help schools achieve a healthy nutrition environment. Make sure to evaluate the activities to see if you have met your goals.