How Can a Poor Diet Affect Learning?

Did you know that a poor diet can not only have a negative impact on your child’s health, but it can also affect their learning abilities? For this reason it is important for parents to be a good role model and encourage a healthy and balanced diet at home.

Here are some great tips from Dover College on how you can help your child to make healthier choices, which will enhance their academic achievements…

Breakfast

Breakfast really is ‘the most important meal of the day’, especially when it comes to your child’s learning. It is important to begin your child’s day with a healthy breakfast, including foods that are rich in fibre and protein. This will help to boost your child’s attention span, ready for a full day at school. Breakfast can also help to improve your mood and your memory, so don’t let your little ones leave home without it!

Water

Water is vital for your child’s health and concentration, so it is important that they stay well hydrated at school. Pack a refillable water bottle in their school bag and encourage your child to drink as much as possible throughout the day. This is particularly important during the summer months, or after sporting activities. Even the mildest form of dehydration can impact your child’s brain function, which can affect their motor skills and mood.

Snacks

Have you noticed a change in your child’s behaviour or mood when they are hungry? Do they become irritable, or do they find it hard to concentrate? It is important that your child eats little and often, through the day to maintain their energy and concentration levels.  Snacks are great; however it is important to educate your child on choosing the right snacks, such as fruit and vegetables, and to avoid sugary foods such as sweets and biscuits.