Use the Family Connection on the first day of teaching the program. Involving parents reinforces what is being taught in the classroom and may encourage parents to become classroom volunteers. The letter is located in each student workbook and can be printed separately as a PDF available in English and Spanish.

Teaching this through distance learning? Explore tips and tools for teaching nutrition resources online.

English

Spanish

Use these short, nutrition messages below to share through your communication channels with your families. 

• Lesson 1 – Team Food Group
  This program begins with a focus on the five food groups, which emphasizes the basic principles of healthy eating. Choices from food groups are balanced throughout the day; variety between and within food groups is encouraged. You can support your child by recognizing foods in each group and providing a variety of foods in the family meals and snacks you plan.
   
• Lesson 2 – Better with Breakfast!
  Your child is learning about the importance of breakfast to kick off their day as well as the consequences of skipping that first meal. What they eat also matters. Aim to include foods from three different food groups as part of a healthy, balanced breakfast. This combination will provide the energy and nutrients your child needs to carry them through a morning of lessons and play.
  
  
• Lesson 3 – The Journey of Food
  There are many stops along the way as foods move from the farm, garden or orchard to your table. Your child is discovering those many stops – processing plants, trucks taking foods to schools or grocery stores, clerks and cashiers in stores…and more! Talk with your child about the many people involved in ensuring that safe, nutritious, and delicious food reaches your home – and discuss how you can show your appreciation.
  
  
• Lesson 4 – Super Snacks!
  Encourage your child to think of snacks as mini-meals, using the food groups as a guide. Snacks that include foods from the food groups can help fill in nutrient gaps over the course of a day. Include foods from at least two different food groups when planning snacks. Try designating a section in your pantry or refrigerator for healthy snacks and let children choose and help with snack preparation!
  
  
• Lesson 5 – Healthy Beverages
  Beverage choices are as important as food choices when looking at overall healthy eating patterns. Your child is learning that it is important to drink water and nutrient-rich beverages to support their growth and development. At home, make sure your child has ready access to water between meals; serve nutrient-rich beverages with meals and snacks, like milk or 100% juice.

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