We all know that getting your young ones to eat a well-balanced meal can be difficult. And for many of our children, the only meal they eat each day that is built of quality nutrition is served in the school cafeteria. In an effort to recognize the school nutrition professionals across the nation who serve our children every school day, the School Nutrition Association is launching School Lunch Superhero Day this Friday, May 3.

First Lady Michelle Obama and Rachael Ray talk with students at Eastside and Northside Elementary Schools in Clinton, Miss., Feb. 27, 2013. The Clinton Public School District in Mississippi mobilized the entire community to make healthy schools a top priority and implemented district-wide changes to bring physical activity and nutritious choices to students – all with no additional funding. (Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson)

Friday’s launch will kick off SNA’s School Nutrition Employee Week (May 6^th-10^th). This gives parents the opportunity to thank our schools’ nutrition employees for their hard work in creating well-balanced and delicious meals that help our kids succeed in school.

Whether it is a simple “Thank You!” or a nice card, there are plenty of ways that parents and child care providers can encourage their children to honor their own School Lunch Superhero. For ideas about how you can thank your Superhero, check out http://www.schoollunchsuperheroday.com/.

“Too often, school nutrition professionals, their hard work and dedication to the children they serve go unrecognized,” said SNA President Sandra Ford. “School Lunch Superhero Day gives students and schools an opportunity to spotlight their school nutrition staff and thank them for the healthy meals they serve and for making the cafeteria a fun and welcoming place for students.”

Not only is this an opportunity to encourage School Lunch Superheroes, it is a chance to talk about nutrition with your kids! Ask them what they like to eat at school and how important their food choices are for their overall well-being.

A little encouragement goes a long way. Encourage your kids to consider the food they are served and encourage their School Lunch Superhero in turn.

Happy School Lunch Superhero Day!