My children are, again, going to get the school hot lunch programme this year.
Really? Yes. Here’s why:
1. Facts Not Fears: Much of the fear-mongering around the content of the lunch programme are by the same supermarket influencers and their tired, attention-seeking hysteria over labels.
2. All children deserve food without stigma: Food insecurity for children in Ireland is heart-breakingly real and often hidden. My colleagues and I all agree: our children opt in so all other children can opt in without fear or stigma.
3. It’s not perfect, but sticking with something important step in how we make a new programme better. If we all opt out, the conversation stops. By opting in, we continue to give feedback and work with suppliers and schools to make it better. (Not just better lunches – but maybe time to eat the lunch!)
4. By my calculation, I’m still responsible for feeding them almost 80-85% of their weekly intake. No, options are not always what I would choose to feed my children at home but it’s only 5 meals. Their breakfasts, 2 snacks/day, dinners ARE planned and prepared by me.
5. It’s just one less job on a busy morning. Totally selfish reason. Don’t judge me.
Top tips:
– Do choose options with your child. Find a balance between what you know they will eat and healthy options available.
– Try to avoid the ones labelled “once-a-week treats” – or similar labels – as daily options.
– If it isn’t enough food for your child, pack extra side for the lunch and make it a healthy choice. You can also consider a bigger “small lunch” for morning snack.
– Simple additions can make big impact for tiny taste buds: try sending in small container of mayo or ketchup to dip wedges or chips.
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