Wellness Policy Form (Parent)
Healthy Celebrations
Birthday parties and holiday celebrations at school provide a unique opportunity to help make healthful eating fun and exciting for children. Take advantage during these classroom celebrations to serve food that tastes, good, is nutritious, and provides students with an opportunity for nutrition education experiences.
Promote a positive learning environment by providing healthy celebrations that shift the focus from the food to the child. Choose a variety of activities, games and crafts that children enjoy. When food is served, make it count with healthy choices! Try these ideas for fun activities and healthy foods at school parties and other celebrations.
How-To's for a Happy, Healthy Party
Variety is the key. Plan several contrasting activities - active & quiet,
indoor & outdoor, individual & group .
Try something new. Children like adventure. In addition to familiar games & food,
offer something different.
Plan creative experiences such as art & music
Involve children in planning & preparing the party. Let them make decorations & favors
Put food in its proper place. Refreshments should compliment the fun,
not become the "main event".
Don't use food as rewards or prizes.
Choose foods for fun, good taste & health. Parties that provide opportunities
for children to practice making wise food choices.
Healthy Food Ideas
Low-fat or nonfat flavored milk, 100% juice, water, flavored water
(without added sugars or sweeteners)
Fruit Smoothies
Fresh fruit assortment, fruit & cheese kabobs, fruit salad, fruit with low-fat whipped topping
Dried fruit, 100% fruit snacks
Vegetable trays with low-fat dip, celery with peanut butter
Whole-grain crackers with cheese cubes or string cheese
Pretzels, low-fat popcorn, graham crackers, animal crackers
Angel food cake with fruit topping
Bagels, English muffins
Pizza with low-fat toppings
Ham, cheese or turkey sandwiches or wraps (with low-fat condiments)
Low-fat pudding, low-fat yogurt, squeezable yogurt
Breakfast or granola bars
Tortilla chips with salsa or bean dip
Trail/cereal mix
NOTE: Many children have food allergies, and, when parents send in food, it is difficult to ensure the safety of children with food allergies. It is recommended that store-bought treats be used. Unlike in homemade treats, the ingredients in store-bought goods are clearly labeled. They're also prepared in commercial kitchens visited regularly by health inspectors.
