Making school lunchtimes more social

School lunchtimes make up about one-sixth of a student’s entire school life, so you want them to be happy occasions.

When you get school lunchtimes right, your little folks will benefit all through the break, on into their afternoon lessons, and even during their evenings.

In this blog, we’ll explain why a social focus is so important at dinner times. Then, we’ll show you how to ramp up the social side of things for your students.

Super reasons to make dinner times more social

Let’s split things up – just like school lunchtimes – into two parts; eating and playtime.

Eating together

Sharing a meal is something your pupils will do all through their lives – with their parents, friends, colleagues, partners and, one day, maybe even a family of their own.

Sitting down to a nutritious meal, talking politely and using good table manners are all great skills to develop during childhood.

A healthy lunch with plenty of options for hydration will also help your pupils stay focused throughout your afternoon lessons.

Playing together

Playgrounds are formative places. But, for some, they might not be all that welcoming.

Growing up with a friendly and inclusive playground will develop your pupils’ social skills, helping them make friends, discover new confidence and develop a different perspective on life.

How to make your school lunchtimes more social

Of course, there’s no magic formula for making this happen. There are things you can do to help, however:

1) Introduce healthier foods

Chances are you’ve seriously improved your canteen’s offering, especially since new nutritional standards came in during 2008.

But, things move on, and initiatives like ‘Chefs in Schools’ show there’s always more you can do (while also saving on your school budget).

You’ll need a pro-level suite of catering equipment to rustle up all those exciting new foods quickly and efficiently. So, think about whether your school cookers, fridges and dishwashers are up to scratch.

Don’t forget to check the foods in your vending machines. And, make sure your pupils have plenty of options for drinking water to keep them fully hydrated.

2) Host themed events

Sure, your pupils have earned a break, and school lunchtimes are important for encouraging independence.

But, a few shared activities in the canteen or in the playground could be a massive help. These events will get the kids excited and put them all on the same page, giving them a shared sense of purpose.

Think about hosting a lunch themed around a particular nationality or style of cuisine. Or, arrange opt-in events for the playground, like talent shows or games.

3) Subtly separate spaces

Removing obstacles and bringing kids together should be your priority in the playground.

But, subtly separating a few spaces using playground canopies or other discreet measures can really come in handy. That way, kids have a place to play away from the main group if they don’t feel like it, or if there’s been a conflict.

You can also use canopies to diversify things in your playground – adding sandpits, water games or a place for a spot of scientific experimentation. So, kids with all types of interests will find a social outlet that suits them.

Create the environment your pupils need to be more social now and in future by using these handy tips.

Get the equipment you need to help your kids get more social during school lunchtimes. Speak to the friendly Utility Rentals team today.