Go, grow, glow are three essential things any parent or guardian desires in their child especially when their ages range between toddler and teen. As a result, the term ‘Go, Grow and Glow’ is a universal guide when teaching the curriculum with relation to healthy eating for basic and primary level students.
This catchy phrase can be skillfully used as a guide for parents and guardians when feeding children at home or packing their lunch boxes. Children are a challenge to feed; they may be picky eaters or fall on the extreme opposite side of the spectrum with insatiable appetites. However, it is our duty as caretakers to ensure they are eating enough, both in quality and quantity. Let’s look at the core factors, which make our children’s meals nutritious.
Go foods provide energy and are generally known as carbohydrates, such as bread, crackers, rice, ground provisions and cereals.
Grow foods assist in the growth and development of children’s bodies- strong bones, teeth and muscles. Food derived from animals include milk, eggs, cheese, beef, fish and chicken. However, some children’s diet may be vegetarian and they can eat peas, beans and nuts as healthy alternatives.
Glow foods are fruits and vegetables, which should be enjoyed daily like apples, bananas, watermelon, lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers.
When sending children off to school, it is more challenging for parents and guardians to monitor their intake. Snacks are those mini meals in between breakfast, lunch and dinner, which keep out the hungry feeling and prevents over eating. Depending on the school setting, youngsters have a wide variety of sweets and artificial snacks to choose from; much to the delight of the vendors and many times to the detriment of your child’s health. However, it is still possible to pack a healthy option inside their lunch box.
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