Why should you consider teaching your students nutrition education? The benefits far outweigh the risks. Students improving their academic performance and making healthier food choices are just two of the ways implementing nutrition education can provide benefits to the school. As the basis of many teaching standards around the country, educators with a master of higher education are reinforcing important standards while also presenting information and materials in a fun and engaging way.
The following reasons were cited by teachers who are already adding nutrition education to their curriculum. There are several benefits they have noticed with their students.
Students are Excited to Learn
Most educators have noticed that their students are genuinely interested in learning more about nutrition, and how it affects them when they are at school or at play. These educators understand that they are teaching the entire child, and any misinformation the children may have regarding nutrition can be dispelled and corrected with the right information.
The younger the student is, the easier it will be for them to absorb and retain information they learn about nutrition education. Studies have concluded that information a child is taught when they are younger will remain with them indefinitely. The guidance they receive from Abilene Christian University graduates will teach them everything they need to know to make smart food choices as adults.
Students Put What They Have Learned to the Test in Everyday Situations
Students can become more informed about what they are eating once they understand how to read a food package label. Thus, they empower themselves to become savvy consumers.
Another benefit is that students encourage their peers to eat healthier foods and snacks.
Improve Students’ Education
Unfortunately, there are many students who do not understand which foods are included in certain food groups, and they are also unaware how food can affect their body. Just like math, science and language are important subjects to learn in school, nutrition is a subject that also needs to be included as a vital part of the education curriculum.
Wellness
Children that adopt wellness as a part of their lives early will get the assistance they need to become active and strong when participating in studies, sports or other activities. Because they feel better, children will have more self-confidence and a better self-image about their bodies. Self-confidence and an increase in overall well-being will also help to ward off any potential mental health issues later.
The immune system is also stronger when the body is fed the proper nutrition. Teachers who have obtained an online higher education degree also stress the importance of eating well to reduce the percentage of students who get sick during the school year. They will not miss as many days from classroom learning and fall behind other students.
Teaching children about nutrition in the classroom will help to prevent them from neglecting their diets when they get older. They will be able to make smart food choices and, by doing so, they can increase their health and lifespan.