Discussion Points, References and Extended Reading
- Eat Smart: Building Healthy Eating Habits
One Sentence Summary
Summary: “Eat Smart: Building Healthy Eating Habits for Kids encourages kids to understand the importance of a balanced diet and healthy snacks, helping them to feel great, stay strong, and have fun exploring colorful and nutritious food choices!”
Topics for Friends
Fun Fact: “Did you know that eating colorful fruits and veggies can help make your brain work better?”
Sharing Points: “Fruits and vegetables aren't just tasty; they also help boost your energy and keep you healthy!”
Topics with Parents
Discussion Starter: “What was your favorite healthy snack when you were my age?”
Sharing Points: “I learned that planning my meals can help me eat a balanced diet and stay energized all day!”
Activities Suggestion
Role-Playing: Set up a mini “restaurant” at home where kids "cook" healthy meals for their family. Each meal should be balanced, including fruits, veggies, proteins, and grains.
Project: Create a colorful weekly meal plan together, decorating it with drawings of fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods. Include fun facts about each food item.
External Resources
Choose My Plate
An interactive website that helps kids learn about how to build a balanced plate. Linkage here.
KidsHealth - Nutrition & Fitness
Articles and videos about how kids can eat right and stay active. Linkage here.
Extended Readings
“Good Enough to Eat: A Kid's Guide to Food and Nutrition” by Lizzy Rockwell
A comprehensive guide to nutrition for kids, explaining how different foods help their body.
“The Monster Health Book: A Guide to Eating Healthy, Being Active & Feeling Great for Monsters & Kids!” by Edward Miller
A fun, illustrated book that guides children on how to live a healthy lifestyle through good nutrition and exercise.
“What’s On Your Plate?: Exploring the World of Food” by Whitney Stewart
Explores different foods and cultures around the world, showing kids the importance of a varied diet.