Revised
Editor’s note
The following abstract describes a publication that is available as a downloadable PDF.
See the companion publication N1039, Nutrition and Learning handout.
Abstract
This poster reviews the role of nutrition in learning and how hunger can impact learning. Tips for starting the day with breakfast, refueling midday and after school snacks are discussed.
Topics
- Nutrition
- Health
- Learning
- Cognition
- Hunger
- Breakfast
- Meals
- Snacks
- SNAP
Pages
- One 24 x 36 inches poster
See poster content below.
Nutrition and Learning
Children who eat more nutritious meals have more energy, stamina and self-esteem, all of which improve their ability to learn.
Start the day with breakfast.
Skipping breakfast leaves the brain without energy to learn. Children who eat breakfast tend to do better in school and other morning activities.
Refuel with lunch.
School lunches meet about one-third of a child’s nutrition needs.
If you pack your child’s lunch, follow MyPlate guidelines and include something from each food group.
Well-nourished children tend to be:
- More physically active
- More curious
- More attentive
- More independent
- More social
- Less uneasy or nervous
- Less tired
- Less likely to get sick
Try these nutrient-packed breakfast ideas:
- Whole-grain cereal or oatmeal topped with fruit and milk
- Breakfast smoothie made with milk and fruit
- Whole-grain toast with peanut butter and milk
- Scrambled eggs with shredded cheese and whole-grain toast
- Leftovers from last night’s dinner
Give kids an after-school boost
Keep easy snacks on hand, such as:
- Ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables
- Whole-grain crackers and cheese
- Popcorn
- Whole-grain cereal
- Low-fat milk and yogurt
- Trail mix with dried fruit and nuts