Research & Practice
Social and Emotional Learning in the School Cafeteria
1 out of 7 children in the US are food insecure and uncertain where their next meal will come from. Children who experience food insecurity are at a higher risk for chronic disease, poor mental health, poor academic performance, and unfavorable health behaviors in adulthood. Encouraging school meal participation and creating a positive cafeteria environment are two extremely important strategies to limit effects of child food insecurity. Research shows that school-wide Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) strategies help improve academic performance, reduce conduct problems, promote positive social behavior and lower emotional distress.
This project involved conducted a comprehensive needs assessment at one elementary school to develop an implementation plan including one-on-one interviews with key school stakeholders, mealtime observations, and focus group discussions with school staff. A literature review on the effects of cafeteria environment factors on dietary intake was conducted, and the effectiveness of SEL strategies on academic performance, behavior outcomes, and emotional support were assessed. The resulting deliverables were SEL-focused implementation strategies to make the cafeteria environment a positive place to eat a nourishing meal and socialize with peers.
Materials Available
Project Type(s): MPH Practicum, PH Concentration Poster
Author(s): Kelsey Kinderknecht
Program(s): Master of Public Health, RDN Training
Year: 2020
Adviser(s):