Third-graders are generally eager to learn. Because of their natural curiosity and ability to absorb new information, this is an ideal time to teach them essential nutrition concepts that they can use their whole lives. Plan engaging activities to build interest in the material, and third-graders will benefit by learning how to choose healthy foods and boost their health.
Importance of Healthy Eating
Third-grade children are usually 8 and 9, which means their bodies still require certain nutrients for proper growth and development, including calcium for healthy bones and protein for strong muscles. Teaching third-graders about the nutrients in different foods will help them choose the ones that will supply them with the vitamins and minerals they need for good health. Nutritious foods are also important because they provide third-graders with fuel so they can learn and play.
Foods for Third-Graders
Children in third grade need foods from each food group. MyPyramid.gov reports that third-grade children need 5 oz. of grains each day, such as cereal, bread, oatmeal and pasta. Third-graders also need 2 cups of vegetables and 1.5 cups of fruits. Carrots, grapes, watermelon, strawberries and green beans are all options most third-graders enjoy. Children this age also need 2 cups of low-fat milk everyday, as well as 5 oz. of beans or lean meat like chicken, turkey and fish.
Foods Third-Graders Should Not Eat
As you teach third-graders what foods to eat, help them identify foods they should not eat on a regular basis. The KidsHealth website from Nemours recommends that you teach them to limit sugary foods such as cookies, candy, cake and soda. Fatty foods such as french fries, burgers and pepperoni pizza should also be limited. Third-graders should learn that these foods may taste good but do not supply enough of the nutrients they need.
Suggested Activities
Third-graders are too young to glean much from a lecture, so including hands-on activities is one way to instill nutritional concepts. Try making vitamin and mineral books. Label each page of a blank book with one vitamin or mineral. Encourage each child to draw some foods that contain that nutrient. Have the children write plays, poems or stories about healthy foods. Third-graders may also enjoy writing songs about healthy foods. Play a guessing game by giving third-graders clues about different foods, such as food group, color and nutrients, and see if they can guess what you are thinking of.
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