Due to modern life amenities and comfort, it’s observed that obesity levels are increasing significantly among children. There is an emerging view that schools should start monitoring the dietry and excercising habits of their students. I firmly agree with this view of educational institutes playing a positive and responsible role in this.
Children spend a signifcant time of their early life in schools. So, these institutes play a signficant role in shaping their pupils’ lifestyle. Many students eat their one or two meals in schools. There is where the school cafeterias can start adopting healthier practices. They could provide only healthier options, avoiding junk foods such as sodas and burgers. Moreover, they could educate the benefits of good and balanced meals, and nudge the parents as well to adopt similar culinary habits. Active monitoring of the diets would help maintain a disciplined lifestyle and cultivate long term benefits, reducing the fat levels of pupils. Healthier students are able to focus more and produce better results academically as well.
In addition to above, most of the educational institutes have sports or physical education subject as part of their curricullam. They should encourage and motivate their learners to participate in games actively. For instance, schools in my city, regulary, set up inter-school tournaments, which generates a lot of interest and competitive spirit among participants leading many to join sports activities. Moreover, participation in physical games or excercises not only helps youngsters physically but also mentally. Schools actively monitoring it throughout the academic year will set a very good precedent for students’ future life.
To conclude, schools monitoring both food and physical activities is very positive and impactful for the children as it not only leads to a healthier body but also a focussed mind, which is a gateway to a better future adult life.