Schools across the commonwealth are investing in their meal programs to improve the quality of their ingredients, and the deliciousness of their meals. Since free school meals were implemented in response to the pandemic, breakfast and lunch participation has nearly doubled across the state.
So, it’s not a question of if kids will like the meals— it’s whether they’ll actually try them.
START A CONVERSATION→
Kids are curious by nature, so when they abstain from something there’s usually a reason. Help destigmatize the delicious free meals served at school by figuring out what exactly your student is trying to avoid, and then brainstorm solutions to take the stress out of the new experience.
PICK A GOAL→
Change rarely happens overnight. Whether your starting goal is to have breakfast at school but lunch packed from home, or maybe one school meal a week, who doesn’t love the feeling of achievement?
MAKE A PLAN→
If your child is struggling to get excited about school meals, try looking at the menu for a meal or two that pique their appetite. Sit down together and circle some definite “yes,” “no,” and “maybe” meals— you can help them make their selections by pointing out things similar to what they usually like. Crunchy, bready, cheesy, you name it.
BE A LITTLE EXTRA→
Who said there’s anything wrong with a little treat? If you have snacks around the house that are dreaming of being eaten, try packing some in your child’s backpack as a reminder of how much you care. For picky eaters wading out of their comfort zone, it can be helpful to send them utensils from home or their favorite drink to help them relax around the new or different foods.
USE THE BUDDY SYSTEM→
Ask your child if they have a friend who likes to eat breakfast and lunch at school! Kids can influence each other in a lot of ways. Now thanks to school meals are free for everyone, peer pressure applies to trying new foods, too.
