This page directs you to manuals, web sites, organizations, and other resources that can assist you in improving nutrition education and meals in your school. The information is arranged under several headings. Process of Change provides an overview of how school food services are organized and tips for introducing changes. Resources for Change will put you in touch with other organizations who publish materials with step by step guidelines for working with your local school site to improve the nutritional environment. Agenda for Change notes the major obstacles which may require administrative or legislative action.
Children learn behaviors and attitudes both by emulation and direct instruction.
Healthy eating patterns are best acquired in healthy eating environments. However, most children eat foods high in fat, cholesterol, and sodium that are available at school. To make matters worse, vending machines, fast food franchises, and fund raising candy sales encourage students to snack on junk food instead of wholesome foods. Such a diet raises the risk of heart diseases, stroke, cancer, and other chronic diseases. The American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, the American Dietetic Association, and many other public health advocacy groups urge Americans to increase their consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.