By: Brenda A. Urrera, Principal II
Manaol E/S
Good nutrition starts with effective education and collaboration in school, home, and community. School plays a vital role in instilling good habits in eating nutritious food among learners. There’s a belief that healthy learners are better and more productive learners. Well-balanced foods keep the learners on track and active in participating in varied activities in school. Research shows that good nutrition is associated with academic achievement. But this will not be possible without the partnership of the school and the family of every learner.
Educating the mind of young children about the significance of good nutrition for their health is not enough to ingrain positive eating habits in learners. Thus, the school offers food from the school canteen and in their feeding program, healthy foods, and beverages for the learners. In line with this, the school always adheres to DepEd Order No. 13, s.2017 or the Policy and Guidelines on Healthy Food and Beverages in Schools and DepEd Offices. Through this, the learners will inculcate the value of good eating habits and proper nutrition.
The programs of schools about proper nutrition will not be successful without the support of the family, as being the main source of food for the children. The collaboration between the home and school is significant to ensure the growth of healthy and holistic learners today. To do this, the school staff like teachers and principals must establish a positive relationship with the parents or guardians at home. This will lead to good communication that will eventually help in the creation of projects that prioritize the health, nutrition, and well-being of every learner. Home is where every good value and habit should start. Thus, parents must initiate and encourage their children to eat healthy and well-balanced foods and beverages. To do this, parents must set an example by showing what to eat and involving their children in preparing these healthy foods. In this way, learners will adopt this behavior and instill a love for healthy eating habits.
On the other hand, the school should also educate families about proper nutrition and wellness to the parents. Educators must provide the parents with the information and skills they need to support good eating habits, positive attitudes towards nutritious foods, and wellness of children at home and in school. The role of PTA officers is vital to effectively implement projects related to proper nutrition. The partnership between home and school is crucial as they create a huge impact on learners’ holistic development. The home and school partnership should be encouraging and supportive to a healthier future.
