The children are encouraged to remember table manners and to eat sensibly and quietly in their seats. We ask the children to wash their hands before sitting down to lunch. They are encouraged to eat all their lunch and return anything they have not eaten to you. We will endeavour to let you know if they are not eating enough. Children are politely asked to avoid fizzy drinks, sweets and chocolate bars.

“90% of children’s packed lunches contain too much fat, sugar and salt, but small changes can make a big difference.” 

(NHS website)

1. Make sandwiches with thickly sliced bread, or choose rolls or pitta breads. Go for wholegrain or wholemeal varieties where you can.

2. Cut down on the amount of butter and margarine you use in sandwiches.

3. Pick low-fat sandwich fillings such as ham, turkey, fish, cottage cheese or even sliced banana.

4. As well as fresh fruit, include a handful of grapes, a small fresh fruit salad or a box of raisins.

5. Go for unsweetened fruit juice, water, flavoured water, milk and yoghurt drinks.

6. Cut down on crisps, which are high in fat, and choose plain popcorn, pretzels, unsalted nuts or dried fruit.

7. Replace cakes, chocolates and biscuits with scones, currant buns and fruit bread.

8. Try to include some vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, sticks of carrot, cucumber, celery and

peppers.

9. Put some salad in your sandwiches. Once a week, why not go for a mixed salad instead of a sandwich.

10. You can still eat chocolate and sweets! Just make sure they are occasional treats.

Healthy lunches and snacks are important for active children. Eating healthy food helps children concentrate and learn. Recent research has also shown that improving diet can actually alter and improve behaviour. Healthy eating changes are not always easy to make. Try to set a good example with your own lunches. Encourage children to be involved in preparing their own lunch and choosing the foods to include.