The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is asking parents, teachers and students to make physical and mental well-being a top priority as the new school year begins.
With the theme “Be Healthy, Active, Smart”, officials highlight three things that can help students do better in school: proper nutrition, staying active, and taking care of their mental health.
“Academic success is impossible if a child is carrying stress or anxiety,” the Ministry said, adding that schools and families must work together to create supportive environments.
Parents are encouraged to choose healthier, budget-friendly options for meals and lunchboxes, especially by using local and seasonal foods. Teachers are also asked to include short movement breaks and wellness check-ins during the school day.
Ministry’s Tips for a Healthy School Year
- Nutrition:
- Pack fresh fruits, vegetables and provisions to sustain energy.
- Choose water over sugary or carbonated drinks.
- Use more local, seasonal foods to keep meals affordable and nutritious.
- Physical Activity:
- Try short “Desk-Buster Brain Breaks” that give students three minutes to stand, stretch and move between subjects.
- Encourage students to join sports and move every day to balance out the long hours spent sitting at desks.
- Mental Well‑Being:
- Teachers should use homeroom periods for quick wellness check‑ins.
- Parents can help by limiting evening screen time to promote better sleep.
- Students are encouraged to talk openly with teachers, counsellors, or parents if they feel stressed or overwhelmed.
The Ministry believes schools play an important role in helping students live healthier lives by encouraging good nutrition, daily movement and emotional support. It has extended best wishes to teachers, parents and students for a safe and successful school year, and urges the whole school community to help keep Saint Lucia’s children healthy, active and ready to learn.
