Dear Families, National Nutrition Month is sponsored annually by the American Diabetic Association (ADA). Since healthy eating, school performance and attendance go hand in hand, we thought we would share some facts with you. Breakfast is important. Encourage your child to eat a well-balanced breakfast daily. Children who do not eat breakfast frequently complain of stomach aches and/or headaches. Also, they will complain about trouble concentrating or that they feel tired. Not sure what to give your child for breakfast? Find something that he/she likes that is low in sugar and has some protein in it. If your child does not like breakfast foods try different foods. Some people have breakfast for lunch or dinner why not lunch or dinner for breakfast. Running late, need a meal in a hurry? Check out some of the websites listed on the following page. Most of them offer suggestions on quick, easy to fix nutritious meals. Parents often worry that their children are not eating the right foods. Children need whole grains, fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and lean sources of protein, (meats and eggs). You are your child's first teacher. Lead by example. Buy and serve nutritious foods so you and your children can get the most out of the day. When you feel good you look good and you are able to do your best at work and/or play. Remember also that attention to nutrition also enhances your resistance to illness and recovery should you become ill. Why not give your child a healthy start to his/her school day? Eating lunch in school is fun for children. Our school lunch program follows the guidelines from the State of Connecticut Department of Agriculture Bureau of Child Nutrition Programs. Bringing a lunch to school is also fun for children. Knowing what to put in that lunch can also be frustrating for parents. The following tips may be useful: Planning is key. It is helpful to ask your child what he/she would like for snack or lunch. Children tend to eat healthier if they are consulted and their choices are considered. If possible, try to plan menus on a weekly basis, so that you have the necessary provisions on hand and can avoid last minute choices that may not be the healthiest. When packing a school lunch or snack remember this motto - "Keep it simple, neat, and healthy and remember you're A,B,Cs". (see below) We hope that the information we have provided is beneficial to you. School Nurses Barbara Lesniewski Ann Hougasian Marie Drouin

The A,B,Cs of Healthy Eating: Think about these suggestions. On a daily basis, try to include foods that are rich in the following vitamins and nutrients: Vitamin A - deep yellow or deep orange fruits or vegetables - Baby carrots packed with a favorite yogurt dip, cubed cantaloupe or dried apricots are good choices. Vitamin B - whole grains, meat, nuts and seeds - Meat, cheese or peanut butter sandwiches on whole-grain or enriched breads, low-fat cheese with whole wheat crackers, pasta salad with cheese or kidney beans, treats of graham crackers, oatmeal cookies with raisins and sunflower seeds are some choices to consider. Vitamin C and Calcium - fresh strawberries, cubed pineapple, citrus fruits or juices, and low-fat milk or yogurt provide these essentials. Low-fat dairy products are also sources of protein and Vitamin D.

Useful websites: http://www.zerotothree.org http://www.eatright.org http://www.foodallergy.org http://www.nutritionexplorations.com http://www.parentsplace.com http://www.parentsoup.com