In a bold move against food restrictions at her daughter’s preschool, a mother sent a powerful message with a handwritten note in the three-year-old’s lunchbox. The incident unfolded when the toddler, Evelyn, was informed by her teacher that she must consume her designated “good” foods before being allowed to enjoy her “bad” cookie.
Caroline, the mother from the United States, expressed her concern over the teacher’s approach, saying, “She couldn’t have her cookie before eating her sandwich and cucumbers. Three years old. At three years old, someone has told her that foods are good or bad.”
Feeling frustrated by what she perceived as antiquated instructions, Caroline decided to take action. She shared, “In this moment, I felt a little frustrated by the antiquated instruction from the teacher… I thought, Well that’s silly. There are no good foods or bad foods. Food is just food.”
Armed with insights gained from fellow parents and nutrition experts, Caroline asserted her stance on the matter. In a note in Evelyn’s lunchbox, she declared, “Evelyn has our permission to eat lunch in any order she chooses. None of her foods are ‘good’ or ‘bad’ — they are just food. Thanks.”
Caroline emphasized the importance of balanced nutrition, explaining how she discusses it regularly with her children. “If you only eat carrots or broccoli, your body won’t have the protein it needs to grow strong muscles,” she said. “We need little bits of everything to make sure that we can learn, play, and grow all day.”
Her post, shared on social media, garnered over 55,000 views, with many applauding her for challenging the notion of categorizing foods as “good” or “bad.” Comments poured in, with one supporter suggesting, “Love your attitude — all food is good. Moderation with all food should be taught.”
A former teacher also chimed in, stating, “The narrative of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ food can encourage harmful eating habits to develop.” Another shared a personal anecdote, recalling a teacher’s attempt to limit “bad” food and treats, prompting a parent to send an entire lunch of such items in response.
As discussions surrounding food education and parental choices continue, this incident serves as a testament to a parent’s advocacy for empowering children with a healthier perspective on food without unnecessary restrictions.
