%20copy.webp)
How we encourage our scholars to be kind and compassionate
Nutrition and physical education play a significant role in children’s success at school. Studies have shown that a healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity can positively impact academic achievement.
Nutrition and physical education play a significant role in children’s success at school. Studies have shown that a healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity can positively impact academic achievement.
In this article, we chat with SPARK Soweto Physical Education Coach Teboho Thomase on how nutrition and physical education can benefit children’s overall well-being.
At SPARK Schools, we believe in a holistic approach to education, focusing on a child’s holistic development and well-being.
All our schools have a healthy eating food policy, which enforces building healthy habits among scholars and our parents. A healthy food policy ensures our scholars have a nutritious lunch to help them perform better at school.
“Nutrition affects students’ thinking skills, behaviour, and health and all factors that impact academic performance. Research suggests that diets high in trans and saturated fats can negatively impact learning and memory,” says Thomase.
Parents should pack a healthy lunch to ensure that kids perform at their best at school. A child’s school lunch should include a healthy snack(Fruit, healthy nuts, popcorn, etc), protein, grains, water or milk for drinking. Avoid junk foods, sweets and sugary drinks as much as possible.
Poor nutrition can expose learners to illnesses, resulting in them missing school and affecting their academic performance.
“Physical education classes also provide an opportunity for social interaction and teamwork, fostering a sense of belonging and connection with peers,” says Thomase.
Thomas encourages learners to participate in 60 minutes of moderate high-intensity physical activity daily. He explains that regular physical activity can improve cardiovascular fitness and help children build strong bones and muscles.
Furthermore, being physically active can reduce the risk of developing various health conditions.
The demands of school can take a toll on some learners. Good nutrition combined with physical activity can help alleviate stress. According to research published by the National Health Institute, it can improve the quality of sleep, mood and quality of life.
Mental health plays a significant role in how kids perform at school; therefore, parents should encourage their children to do regular exercise, make sure that they get good quality sleep, and eat healthily at school and home.
In conclusion, good nutrition and physical activity are essential to your child’s success at school and positively affect their overall well-being.
