More Parental Involvement
Research shows that students can concentrate better in class, eat more vegetables and fruit, and families experience less financial stress thanks to the programme. “The decision is hugely important for the children, the parents, and the more than 2,200 schools currently using school meals,” says Spekman. “Just today, I visited a school in Amsterdam where parents help prepare breakfast every morning. This is not only nice for the children but also increases parental involvement in the school.”
Fewer Incidents
We also regularly hear from schools that there are fewer incidents now that children are sitting in class with full stomachs. Spekman: “Recently, a headteacher told me that the number of incidents at his school has dropped by as much as 70%. The headteacher and care coordinator help with breakfast in the morning, investing extra time in connecting with the young people. This is another side effect of the programme. Breakfast has now become fully integrated, and teachers see a significant improvement in how students enter the classroom. School meals work in many ways. It’s wonderful that we can continue with this.”
