At present, nearly 1,700 primary and secondary schools organize food at school. The schools may decide for themselves how they organize the food: breakfast, lunch or healthy snacks, or a combination of these eating moments. The research shows that more than 40 percent of schools offer breakfast, 65 percent provide lunch and 80 percent offer healthy snacks such as vegetables or fruit.
Because pupils sit in class with a full stomach, they have more energy, can concentrate better and are more motivated. The atmosphere in the classroom and at school has also improved, according to the Jeugdeducatiefonds. In addition, schools that involve parents in eating at school notice positive effects among them. Parents can also be better supported because the school has better contact with them.
Positive effect on parents
“This research shows that a school meal has all kinds of benefits,” says Ellen Donkers of the NJi. “In addition to providing a full stomach, it creates a strong connection, for example between parents. A school meal is a way to expand those parents’ networks. When they get to know each other at school, there is more contact and they build a relationship of trust. It then becomes easier, for example, to ask how other parents experience their child’s adolescence or what they do with a toddler who gets angry quickly.”
Feeling better about themselves
According to Donkers, a school meal also creates a connection between pupils. “Pupils who eat together feel connected to one another and to the school. A better atmosphere develops. Of course, a school meal does not perform miracles. It is not a solution to all the problems faced by families in a vulnerable position. But it can contribute to children and parents feeling better about themselves.”