Free Educational Materials for Families
Developed by University of Minnesota Extension
These resources on healthy foods and beverages are designed for:
- Parents of 3rd -6th graders who are learning in school about healthy foods and beverages for meals and snacks
- Parents of student-athletes
- Parents bringing treats to school or holding fundraisers
Nutrition Information
MyPlate on MidDay Moment — Short video introduces MyPlate dietary guidelines. Features Extension Educator, Kathleen Lovett.
Re-think Your Drink — Short video that reviews the facts on common beverages.
The Importance of Family Mealtimes — Family mealtimes not only encourages healthy eating habits, it also decreases the chances that kids will use drugs.
Healthy & Fit on the Go — Great ideas to stay healthy and fit when away from home. Meal ideas, exercise tips, and more.
Eat Your Colors for Better Health — Reviews why it's important to each a variety of fruits and vegetables and how to encourage others to eat more of them.
A Good Source of Brown Fat — What is "brown fat" and does it really help with weight loss?
Shopping at Farmers' Markets — Tips on how to buy the best fresh in-season, locally grown produce.
What are Energy Drinks All About? — What's the hype? What are the health concerns? Be informed.
Eat Healthy for Less — Tips, worksheets, videos, and more to help your family stay healthy during challenging economic times.
Healthy Beverage Choices (288 K PDF) — Make it milk, water, or 100% fruit juice, not sugary pop.
Power up Your Day with Breakfast (496 K PDF) — Stay alert, learn better, and load up on energy for work and play.
Growing Healthy Bones (268 K PDF) — Add calcium with 3 cups of milk, cheese, and yogurt a day.
Healthy Eating on the Go (1.9 MB PDF) — Provide “help yourself” snacks at home so kids get in the habit of choosing wisely.
Fruits and Vegetables for Good Health (576 K PDF) — Try new textures and colors-dark greens and yellows-to get out of a rut.
Healthy Fast Food Choices (552 K PDF) — Skip the fries and pop for smart eating out.
Parent’s Guide to Nutritious Food for the Classroom (60 K PDF) — Choose from our list of tasty treats for school events.
Make Sure Your School's Fundraising Efforts Support Healthy Eating (152 K PDF) — Adopt creative ideas for selling non-food items, holding raffles or taking pledges.
Sports Nutrition Information
Nutrition Supplements (168 K PDF) — Compare popular protein and energy products. Are they worth it?
Nutrition Guide for the Athlete (288 K PDF) — Calculate how many calories you need based on how active you are.
Fluids and Hydration (180 K PDF) — Be sure to drink water before, during, and after sports.
Eating for Performance (504 K PDF) — It’s what you eat and when: tips for pre- and post-game meals.
Other Resources
Dealing with Stress: Web-based Educational Series — A free online workshop series that gives you an understanding of how stress affects your nutrition, health, and more. Aimed towards those in the agricultural field but most materials and resources are applicable to anyone experiencing stress.
