![child apples healthy](https://www.besthealthmag.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/healthy_eating.jpg?fit=353%2C234)
Teach kids to embrace healthy eating
Nutrition education in classrooms is an important part of turning kids into healthy eaters. And while teachers may do a great job of educating students on healthy food, parents play the key role. Here are ways parents can support teachers and encourage kids to embrace healthy foods.
![school bag lunch](https://www.besthealthmag.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/bag_0.jpg?fit=268%2C194)
Lighten up lunch
Pack a junk-food-free lunch for your kids (if you have teens who make their own lunch, make sure healthy options are front and centre in the fridge). If all the students in a class are eating fresh fruit, vegetables and non-processed foods, a healthy eating environment will flourish.
![almonds nuts](https://www.besthealthmag.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/almonds_0.jpg?fit=353%2C234)
Send smart snacks
For birthdays or holiday celebrations, parents often send in treats for the class. Stick to creative, fun, nutritious snacks such as fruit kebabs.
![Nutrition: Get checked for your risk of diabetes](https://www.besthealthmag.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Nurse-survey.gif?fit=353%2C265)
Share your knowledge
If you have expertise in nutrition or health, you could be a great resource for the teacher and students. Approach your kids’ school to see if you can present a lesson on healthy eating.
![swap](https://www.besthealthmag.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/swap1.jpg?fit=353%2C258)
Connect
In Stratford, Ont., where I teach, we’ve linked farmers and chefs with local schools to share their produce knowledge and cooking skills. Talk to your school council about whether this might work at your child’s school.
![chef chopping vegetables](https://www.besthealthmag.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/chef.jpg?fit=353%2C234)
Connect
In Stratford, Ont., where I teach, we’ve linked farmers and chefs with local schools to share their produce knowledge and cooking skills. Talk to your school council about whether this might work at your child’s school.
![volunteering](https://www.besthealthmag.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/how-to-volunteer.jpg?fit=268%2C194)
Volunteer
Most schools have a morning breakfast program, but many are under-staffed. Volunteer to help, or send in healthy food options.
Related:
• 15 healthy back-to-school lunch ideas
• 5 fun and healthy lunch ideas
• 5 tips for packing lunches kids will love