Young People and Children
Many food initiatives work with children and young people, both in school and in other settings, such as youth clubs, because it is hoped that by encouraging young people to have healthier habits that these will be continued when they get older. A lot of health problems that adults experience in later life may also be affected by what they eat in childhood.
Children and teenagers also need enough nutrients and energy in order to enable their bodies to develop and brains to function properly. There are a large number of initiatives that can be run with children including cookery groups, growing schemes, breakfast clubs, fruit tuck shops or food fayres. Schools are also encouraged to have a whole school approach to food and back up what is taught in lessons about healthy eating through its ethos and where food is provided.
Links:
- www.foodafactoflife.org.uk
- www.schoolfoodtrust.org.uk
- A number of short case studies, all focussing on promoting healthy eating in schools, can be found on the schools food trust website.
- www.foodinschools.org
- www.farmsforteachers.org.uk
- www.chewonthis.org.uk
- www.schoolsgarden.org.uk
- www.schoolsorganic.net