QUALITY STORYTENTS
A resource for family, early childhood and community literacy workers
An essential part of the Storytent programs, snack is consistent with a holistic approach to learning. It is difficult for children and families to get the most out of the program when they are hungry. Sometimes, children come to the tent specifically for snack, and then choose to stay for reading and related activities. Snack provides an opportunity for exposing children to fruits and vegetables they might not be familiar with. It also provides for social learning and building relationships. Snack is a part of the program every one can participate in regardless of their skill level or confidence. Providing a healthy snack lessens the likelihood that children will snack on candy or other high sugar and dye-content items that interfere with learning and behaviour.
We usually bring two kinds of organic fruits or vegetables, in order to avoid the negative effects poor quality food has on health and behaviour (Van de Weyer, 2005). Our shopping list includes apples, pears, bananas, watermelon, cantaloupe, dulse, and seasonal garden vegetables (green beans, peas in the pod). We used to offer citrus fruit (oranges, clementines or mineolas), but discovered that they too had a negative impact on behaviour: ten to fifteen minutes after a citrus snack, many children became too boisterous to remain in the tent. On hot days, we also ensure we have plenty of water on hand for everyone.