Use evidence-based resources and teaching materials

• This section provides grade specific guidance and resources for the current versions of the Elementary (2019)  and Secondary (2015) Health and Physical Education curricula  developed for BrightBites by public health dietitians in consultation with other educators and experts.
• The way educators talk and teach about food and bodies can have a big impact on students. The ideas presented in this document represent an interpretation of the curriculum that uses a food neutral and inclusive approach to help students develop a positive relationship with food and their bodies. To learn more about our approaches, review our Guiding Principles.
• Remember that healthy eating means something different to everyone. Ontario Dietitians in Public Health believes that healthy eating means enjoying a variety of foods that meet individual needs and preferences. Healthy eating can be different from person to person. We encourage choosing foods for enjoyment, preferences, culture, traditions, celebrations, health, and budget. Healthy eating includes feeling good about eating and acknowledging your hunger and fullness cues.
• Use Canadian resources as much as possible including Canada’s food guide, and the healthy eating recommendations. Consider that Canada’s food guide outlines one way of eating based on Western foodways and therefore should not be the only lens through which food education is provided to students. Note that the 2015 Secondary Curriculum is based on a previous version of Canada’s Food Guide (2007). The language in this content reflects the current 2019 version.
• Some activities and resources linked in this section are developed by commodity boards or public health agencies in other provinces and territories. All resources have been reviewed by Registered Dietitians at ODPH to ensure they represent a variety of foods, reflect the most current evidence and are generally free of bias. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
• Educators should be aware that Canda's food guide messages and other related resources may not be appropriate for all students including those who are neurodivergent and/or have health, sensory or other exceptional needs that impact their relationship with food and eating. SMHO Resource on Mental Health Promotion at Schools: Classroom Considerations – Supporting Mental Wellness Amongst Students with Special Education Needs offers tips that can support learning about food and eating at school.

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