Summer can disrupt children's nutritional habits due to irregular schedules, frequent snacking, and increased access to sugary seasonal treats. However, for many families, reduced access to school meals has the most significant impact, says Marilyn Moore, a nutrition specialist for Step Forward Head Start.
According to the Food Research and Action Center, 19.7 million children received a free or reduced-price lunch on an average day during the 2022-2023 school year.
“When school breaks for the summer, it is hard to ensure children’s meals meet all their nutritional needs,” Moore explained. “Young children, especially preschool-aged children, need a balanced diet to support their overall health.”
Good nutrition for infants and toddlers is not just about keeping them full; it’s about providing nutrient-dense foods that help them stay healthy, active, and grow strong. Proper nutrition supports their physical growth and strengthens their immune system. Nutrient-rich foods are especially crucial for brain development, which is essential during the first few years of a child’s life.
Throughout the school year, students at Step Forward Head Start receive breakfast, lunch, and snacks daily that meet USDA requirements. These meals are high in nutrients and low in fat, sugar, and salt. Additionally, nutrition staff engage students in activities focused on learning about healthy food, food groups, and portioning using tools like the U.S. Department of Agriculture's MyPlate.
To continue building upon the habits they learn in school, Step Forward Head Start’s nutrition team provided a short list of tips families can use with young children to promote healthy diet habits year-round:
Plan Consistent Meals: Keeping a regular schedule for meals and snacks helps maintain a sense of routine and ensures that children receive the nutrients they need throughout the day.
Choose Healthy Snacks: Pick snacks that are both tasty and nutritious. Fresh fruits, vegetables with hummus or low-fat salad dressing, yogurt or reduced-fat cheese, and whole-grain crackers are excellent choices that provide essential nutrients and energy while keeping children full and satisfied between meals.
Limit Sugary Drinks: It's best to limit sugary drinks and treats. Instead, opt for milk and, when age-appropriate, water, as these are healthy options for young children.
"At Head Start, we see firsthand the positive impact that a healthy diet has on children's ability to learn and grow. We strive to instill these habits early on so that they can carry them forward throughout their lives,” said Moore. “Healthy habits don't take a vacation. By maintaining a focus on nutrition, we can support children's cognitive development and overall well-being, ensuring they are ready to learn and grow when they return to school."
Free Summer Meal Programs for Children in Northeast Ohio
During the summer, the Cuyahoga County Public Library, in partnership with the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, provides free summer lunches for children 18 and under. Meals are available on weekdays while supplies last. You can find more information about locations and times here.
University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s also offers the Kids Summer Lunch Program at select locations throughout Northeast Ohio, where children ages 0-18 can receive a free nutritious meal available Monday through Friday. You can find more information about locations and times here.
Step Forward Early Head Start serving children from birth to age 3 and Head Start serving Children ages 3 - 5 is enrolling for the 2024-2025 school year and is FREE for eligible families! Give your child a Head Start and enroll today!
Step Forward Head Start is hiring!
The agency is offering a sign-on bonus of $5,000 for full time employees
Positions include teachers, family service workers, nutrition aides and more. Step Forward Head Start is looking for education staff passionate about preparing young students for the future and helping them develop a love for learning early. Take a step toward a new fulfilling career today! Learn more and apply to open positions here.