Oatmeal Breakfast Program

Contact: Trudy Normand, School Meals Program Coordinator, Prince George, School District 57
E-mail: tnormand@sd57.bc.ca Tel: 250.563.7359

Process:
An elementary school needed a breakfast program. There was only a small amount of funding available so we needed to plan with a “frugal mind”. The principal (of Scottish heritage) smiled and suggested ‘oatmeal’. To this we offered milk, raisins (and/or cinnamon) and a half bagel (or whole gain toast). Fresh fruit would be offered from the lunch program from the day before (if available). The staff found that 40 students can be fed very reasonably.

People involved: Principal and School Meal Coordinator

Key changes/results:
When we started the breakfast program, we found that oatmeal was foreign to many of the students’ palates. They were encouraged by trying spoonfuls or mini bowls and a promise of a bagel or toast once they tried the oatmeal. They also were told them that the principal “really” wanted them to try the oatmeal before they had the toast or bagel. Over time we have developed the best porridge eaters around! Students will ask for cold porridge “with the works” at recess and are disappointed if there is none. Students who are not on the breakfast program want to eat oatmeal at recess.

Challenges:
The porridge was foreign to most of the students so there was a reluctance to try something new.

Keys to success:
Staff with a smiling, cheerful face in the morning and some friendly persistence, coaxing, and lots of praise.