A food pyramid is a helpful tool to use when planning meals. A food pyramid contains all the different food groups. Kidshealth.org has a wonderful food pyramid, complete with measurements needed from each food group. Kids need a certain amount of grain, veggies, fruit, dairy and protein each day in order to have a well-balanced diet. Students perform better in school when they eat a well-balanced diet.
Breakfast will be the most important meal for your child. A healthy breakfast will jump-start his brain, causing him to wake up and think more clearly. An example of a healthy breakfast is scrambled eggs, whole-grain toast with cheese, orange juice and a banana. The protein is especially helpful because it will keep your child feeling fuller longer. This means she can concentrate on the test instead of her stomach.
A healthy lunch and dinner should include foods from the food pyramid. Whole-grain breads, veggies, fruits, dairy and protein need to be prepared and served to your children. A dinner followed by a good night's sleep will nourish their bodies and prepare their brains for heavy thinking.
Snacks are served in between tests during the school day. Parents and teachers often bring in healthy snacks for the students to eat. This small amount of energy gives their brains another boost and gives the students a break.
It is important that you stay away from foods that are high in sugar or caffeine content. Although these ingredients can have nice short-term effects, the long-term effect results in a crash. Better choices include granola bars, trail mix, peanut butter crackers, popcorn, veggies and dip, or fruit cups. These give students a little boost of brain power and fill their stomachs so that they can get back to concentrating on the tests.
Snacks that are quick and easy are the best choices during standardized tests. Easy cleanup is also helpful. Be prepared with paper plates, napkins, cups, wet wipes and a trash can.