You may not be aware of just how much your preschooler is learning in the classroom. Besides exposure to letters, colors, numbers and shapes, your child is likely learning social skills, preliminary reading and writing and math concepts. To get the most out of her school day, include certain foods in her menu that support brain health and function. Include these foods at home and school for increased learning benefits.
Complex Carbohydrates
Refined carbohydrates cause a spike in blood sugar, a condition that negatively effects a preschooler's brain function. Your preschooler needs carbohydrates for energy, but complex carbohydrates don't cause such a large shift in his blood sugar, allowing his brain to continue working optimally after he has eaten. Fruits and vegetables are good options for snacks and to serve with meals. Oatmeal and bran cereal are healthy choices for a preschooler's breakfast and milk and plain, low-sugar yogurt are good options to serve with a meal or snack.
Iron
A preschooler who is deficient in iron may experience a decline in mental alertness. Increasing iron intake improves concentration and learning, reports Dr. Sears. Many multivitamins supply a child with the iron she needs to focus and learn at school, but large amounts of iron could be toxic to children so discuss the right vitamin with your preschooler's pediatrician. Include lean beef, chicken or fish in your child's meal plan to increase her iron intake. Other foods that contain this nutrient include fortified oatmeal, beans, spinach and whole wheat bread.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3s are a type of healthy fat that keeps brain function healthy in people of all ages, preschoolers included. Your preschooler's body cannot produce omega-3s and he must get them from food or supplements. Some children show poor school performance if they don't have enough healthy fats in their bodies, according to Dr. Sears. Foods that increase his intake include fish, such as salmon, tuna and mackerel, olive and canola oil, nuts, seeds and avocados.
Protein
Adequate protein intake allows a preschooler's brain to more efficiently transmit messages that aid in learning in the classroom. Include protein in each meal and snack that your preschooler eats for benefits that last all day long. Meat and fish, dairy foods, nuts, eggs and beans are healthy foods that contain plenty of protein. Serving protein with small amounts of complex carbohydrates perks up the brain and prepares it for learning new information. Foods that have this mix include seafood, eggs, tofu and milk.
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