AS the nation prepares for children's return to school on Saturday, parents need to be aware that healthy meals and snacks are essential for learning. "Parents can make the school day easier for their children by providing nutritious and yummy breakfasts, lunches and snacks that promote optimal learning. Everyone is in a rush in the morning, but it only takes a few minutes to plan healthy meals to fuel your child's week," Karin Richards, the director of the Exercise Science and Wellness Management programme, and director of Health Sciences at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, said, according to HealthDay. Richards offered the following advice for parents as they plan breakfast, lunch and snacks for their school-age children: Include at least three types of foods into each meal, making sure to include some type of protein and complex carbohydrates, such as whole wheat bagels or pasta. The complex carbohydrates will provide energy, while the protein will satisfy your child's appetite for a longer period of time. Bring your child to the market with you and let him or her choose one fruit or vegetable each week. Encourage kids to try new and interesting produce such as kiwi, papaya and edamame.
