It’s lunch time at school:
Do you know what your kids are eating?

The day your child goes off to school – whether for the first time or even to their first year of high school - it’s only natural to feel a tug at your heart. That bittersweet feeling is a common emotional response to watching your children learning to make their way through the world on their own. One way to put your mind a little to rest is to allow your kids to participate in their school lunch program. It’s a great way to let them practice making nutritious food choices such as low-fat or fat-free milk, cheese or yogurt.

Getting active, staying involved 
So as we get set to observe National School Lunch Week, October 14–20, it’s important to realize your role as a parent in making sure your kids get the nutrition they need to grow, learn and enjoy school. National School Lunch Week is a great time for parents to contact local school leaders, and offer to pitch-in as a volunteer at their child’s school. Visit Dairy & School to find tips for parents, teachers and school nutritionists, including fundraising sources.

For starters, ask for a copy of your child’s school lunch menu. It’s a good gauge of the school’s commitment to good nutrition. You can also use it to help coordinate your meal plan for breakfast and dinner. That way your kids are less likely to suffer through two rounds of meatloaf on the same day.

It’s just not lunch without dairy!
Point out all the dairy food options available on the school’s lunch menu. For example, many schools now offer milk in colorful plastic bottles and a variety of enticing flavors. In a similar way, be on the look out for opportunities for your child to enjoy yogurt and cheese in single servings or in the main dish.

Helping kids make healthy choices
Finally, one of the best ways to help your son or daughter make nutritious food choices at school is to set the example at home. Kids raised in an environment where good nutrition is second nature are far more likely to make healthy choices from the serving line at school. Check to see what’s being served in the cafeteria each week. This may be one of the most valuable lessons your child could learn at school this year.