As part of our Foodie Wednesday program, we celebrated two power-packed ingredients—apples and quinoa—during a delicious breakfast event. Our students in health class learned all about these nutritious foods, and then had the added benefit of enjoying them as part of a tasty and wholesome meal.
We all know the saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” but our students dove deeper into the benefits of this beloved fruit. Not only are apples full of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, but they also come in more than 7,500 varieties! And since October is the peak season for apple harvesting right here in New York, it was the perfect time to explore all things apple. From supporting digestion to boosting the immune system, apples are a sweet and crunchy way to keep our bodies healthy, and our students loved discovering these facts.
Quinoa, on the other hand, was a brand-new adventure for many of our students. This protein-packed grain has a rich history, originating near Lake Titicaca between Peru and Bolivia. Known as the “mother of all grains” in the Incan language, quinoa is a nutritional superstar, loaded with fiber, B vitamins, and essential minerals. It comes in a variety of colors—white, red, and black—each with its own unique flavor and texture. Our students were fascinated to learn about quinoa’s ancient roots and how it has gained popularity as a superfood all over the world.
After learning about these healthful ingredients in class, our students rolled up their sleeves and helped prepare a breakfast featuring both apples and quinoa. The experience wasn’t just about eating—students got hands-on in the kitchen, learning how easy it can be to cook with nutritious, whole foods. It was a fun, interactive way to turn classroom lessons into real-life skills, and the smiles on their faces showed how much they enjoyed it.
At Shrub Oak, Foodie Wednesday is more than just a chance to try new foods. It’s a time for our students to take ownership of their health, explore different ingredients, and get creative in the kitchen. We love watching our students discover new flavors, and the joy that comes with knowing they are making choices that benefit their bodies and minds.
Our Apple and Quinoa Breakfast Day was a huge hit, sparking curiosity and excitement about healthy eating. As the fall season continues, we look forward to more Foodie Wednesday events that help our students learn, grow, and enjoy the delicious journey to wellness!
