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Throughout Southern California, this back-to-school time has been like no other. With local COVID-19 metrics not meeting the standards for face-to-face instruction, distance learning is a fact of life at least for now in Los Angeles County and many places nearby and across the nation. While the best way to navigate this challenging time is different for each family, what’s clear is that distance learning is not easy.
Distance learning requires children to sign onto an internet-connected device every day to interact in real-time with their teachers and classmates. Many children spend the majority of their school day sitting in a chair with their eyes fixed on the screen. We know that good nutrition plays an important role in the academic success of children, but it’s more important than ever right now. To do well in virtual classrooms, students must maintain a high level of concentration and stay mentally focused and eating right can lend an important advantage
Here are some nutrition tips to help children succeed at distance learning:
1) Start the day with a balanced breakfast
A breakfast with energizing carbohydrates and some fiber will get the day started right. Choose foods made with whole grains like cereal or toast to help fuel the brain. Adding in some protein and healthy fats from foods like Greek yogurt, avocado, eggs or nut butter will help provide long-lasting energy.
2) Choose snacks with protein
It’s common to reach for sugary snacks for a quick energy boost between meals, but the brain will benefit more from a protein-packed snack. Include items like low-fat string cheese, a few slices of deli turkey, edamame or a handful of nuts for a snack. This will help enhance cognitive performance.
3) Lunch should be lean and green
Lunch is an opportunity to satisfy hunger and get in essential nutrients. To avoid that post-lunch slump, keep lunch on the leaner side and try to include some veggies. A sandwich or wrap with some sliced up vegetables and hummus will do the job.
4) Make time for movement
Kids learn best when they move their bodies throughout the day. However, learning from home is not necessarily conducive to getting adequate exercise. It may be helpful to put together a family plan for physical activity that is safe and appropriate for your student’s learning environment. Simple stretches, pushups and yoga poses can work well in smaller spaces where keeping noise down is key. Getting some sunlight and fresh air is very beneficial even if it’s just for short bursts of time.
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Source:: Los Angeles Daily News
