Setting up a snack station can help kids re-fuel without consuming empty calories that may cause them to overlook more healthful foods at mealtime. Single servings also can be helpful in teaching children about portion control, which is one of the leading contributors to overweight. The new food guide pyramid suggests six-11 servings from the grain group each day. That sounds like a lot, but not considering that a recommended serving of most foods is one-half cup. A restaurant serving may be two or more cups, which is equivalent to four servings.
Most students also look forward to meal time as a time to interact.
Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus, Manhattan.