Schools
District's Fruit and Veggie Program Gives Kids a Healthy Option
How many 5-year-olds have tried a papaya? How about a persimmon? If your child attends one of nine elementary schools in Manatee County participating in a new program, they might be eating healthier than you thought possible.
It's the fifth year that the School District of Manatee County has brought fresh fruits and veggies into the classroom four days a week to expose students to healthier options.
The purpose of the program is to increase elementary school children’s consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables and introduce new products to the kids.
Those involved receive a fresh fruit or vegetable in their classrooms as a midmorning snack along with some fun nutrition facts including information on where the snack is grown, how it is grown, and the health benefits.
Nine of 11 Manatee District elementary schools have received funding for the program including Ballard Elementary, Daughtrey Elementary, Manatee Elementary, Oneco Elementary, Orange Ridge-Bullock Elementary, Palmetto Elementary, Rogers Garden Elementary, Samoset Elementary and Tillman Elementary.
So next time you are craving an exotic side dish, go ahead and indulge! You might be surprised at your kids' newly developed palate.
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