Culture & Students' Eating Habits
Increase in Cultural Diversity
- As of 2018, non-Hispanic White students enrolled in US schools account for less than 50%
- The non-Hispanic White population has decreased from 54% to 47% between 2009 to 2018 with an increase in minority groups
- Researchers have projected minority groups to continue to grow with a decline in single-race non-Hispanic Whites from 52% in 2015 to an estimated 36% by 2060
- Did you know? With US schools becoming more ethnically diverse, understanding cultural diversity is essential for teachers since culture has an influence on children’s eating behaviors and food practices within the classroom.
Culture & Nutritional Habits
- Students may come to the classroom with a variety of eating habits
- Some eating habits might seem ill-mannered or odd based on your perception of appropriate behaviors
- Cultural upbringing plays a large role in children’s eating habits which vary widely across the world
- Some children may prefer to eat with their hands
- Others may may not eat certain food items
- Some may make mouth noises while eating
- Varying eating habits may be appropriate to children's respective cultures, even if those habits do not align with your own beliefs
- Did you know? It is essential to understand the diverse cultural backgrounds of your students to help guide them into developing healthy and culturally appropriate eating habits.