We all need healthy food every day, but it is particularly important for children to eat well because their bodies are still growing.
Most people agree that it is difficult to learn anything if you are hungry because the brain needs food in order to function well. Studies have shown that children who are hungry have trouble concentrating and become slow learners. In addition, the school day can be quite long and involve many activities. Teachers cannot expect children to participate fully if they have an empty stomach. Many children do eat something at school, even if it is only a snack. However, some snacks are not very nutritious. Crisps and chips, for example, are very fatty and contain a lot of salt, while biscuits are sugary. Although these food items may increase energy levels, they only have a short-term effect. A healthy meal, on the other hand, will keep energy levels higher for longer and help children learn more easily.
In my view, it is up to parents and schools to make sure that children eat healthily. Schools may provide meals, but if parents prefer to decide what their children eat, there needs to be a choice. In my country, children can either have a school meal, which they pay for, or bring a packed lunch. I think this is a good system, but in other countries a different system may be preferable.
In conclusion, a healthy meal will definitely help children to study more successfully. However, both parents and schools have a responsibility to make sure that this is provided for them.
