North Augusta Elementary School is set to introduce an exciting new nutrition education initiative at the end of February. The program, known as Mood Boost, is a collaborative effort between the Child Nutrition Program and Chartwells K12, designed to highlight the connection between food choices and emotional well-being.
Emerging research suggests that the foods we consume regularly can influence not only our physical health but also our mood and overall sense of well-being. Mood Boost focuses on educating students about the importance of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, which contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help enhance personal characteristics such as happiness, alertness, strength, calmness, and confidence.
The Mood Boost program will be implemented in a select number of Aiken County schools, with North Augusta Elementary among the participants. The initiative is structured over a seven-week period, beginning with the introduction of the Moodies—engaging icons that represent different moods. Over the following six weeks, each mood will be featured alongside delicious and colorful recipes developed by expert chefs.
To kick off the program, North Augusta Elementary will host a special taste test pop-up event during lunchtime on Tuesday, February 25. Students and staff will have the opportunity to sample a Mood Boost dish and take home recipe cards to recreate the meal. The event will seamlessly integrate into the regular school day without disrupting the existing bell or lunch schedules.
Beyond the pop-up event, Mood Boost will provide educational materials for use in classrooms or at home with parents, ensuring students gain a deeper understanding of how their food choices impact their well-being. The program will be overseen by the school’s cafeteria staff and members of the Child Nutrition Department Central Office, ensuring successful implementation and engagement.
By making nutritious eating fun and interactive, Mood Boost aims to inspire students to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their daily diets, ultimately fostering healthier habits and improved moods. Stay tuned for more updates as North Augusta Elementary embarks on this exciting journey toward better nutrition and well-being!