Second graders serve up an "awesome" lunch

Food and Nutrition, Oct, 1985 by Wini Scheffler

Several years ago, Sewall served on a task force that prepared a booklet on improving school food service. The University of New Hampshire distributed the pamphlet free in the state and offered it for sale nationwide while supplies lasted. The booklet included ideas for involving children in school lunch activities.

Noontime finds a job well done

Those who find it hard to believe that children can take a large role in meal planning and preparation would have been persuaded by seeing the Stratham second graders take charge.

The first lunch period found them on duty in a short and efficient assembly line. Spatula in hand, Andy placed a slice of steaming pizza on each food tray; Denise scooped mixed nuts and raisins onto the tray; Neal measured out a mixed salad; and Melissa handed each child a fruit popsicle.

After lunch, the crew debated with animation who had done the toughest job.

"It was wicked hard,' declared Neal. "I had to get the salad on and move the tray out, too.'

Melissa tossed her blonde curls triumphantly. "Maybe my job wasn't the hardest, but I know it was the most boring.'

Proud and just a little tired, they cleaned their trays and carefully returned them to the counter. A day with their friends in the kitchen had taught them the work and satisfaction involved in providing a wholesome noonday meal.

For more information, contract:

Joan Sewall Stratham Memorial School Stratham, New Hampshire 03885 Telephone: (603) 772-5413

Lloyd Littlefield, Director Food and Nutrition Services Department of Education State Office Park South 101 Pleasant Street Concord, New Hampshire 03301 Telephone: (603) 271-3646

Photo: With a little help from Joan Sewall (left) and her assistant Dorothy Bragdon, the second graders put the finishing touches on their chosen meal.